While I am a huge fan of everything at Universal Studios Orlando – Dr. Seuss, Jurassic Park, Minion Land, Transformers, and so forth, I love visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I grew up reading the books and to see this in person is incredible! I love seeing the train station and the parts that remind me of England as well, but did you know there are hidden gems all throughout the area? While there is Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, I will only be talking about Diagon Alley. Soon enough, I will have a post up about Hogsmeade.
Things to do in Diagon Alley
1. Exchange your Money
One of the first things I did was to go into the Gringotts Money Exchange and Exchanged my Money for Wizarding Currency. You can use the Wizarding Currency all throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. While there is no real point in doing this, it’s still so much fun to exchange it and you get to talk to the goblin.
2. Sip on some Butterbeer and try some snacks
You gotta hand it to J.K. Rowling for coming up with these drinks and the snacks. I remember reading about them in the books and thinking, I wish I could try that! Years later, I finally do and I absolutely love Butterbeer.
3. Go to Ollivanders Wand Shop
While, yes you can buy an interactive wand, you should go to Ollivanders Wand Shop to watch the show. It’s like a scene right out of the Harry Potter movie and it’s always fun to see the kiddos so excited about it.
4. Head to Hogsmeade on the Hogwarts Express
I am a lover of all trains, and while this one is a two-minute ride to and from Hogsmeade/Diagon Alley, it is still a fun experience.
5. Eat at The Leaky Cauldron
I usually do not like to eat at theme parks because of the overpriced food, but I’ve realized that I do it mostly for the experience. So while you may not like the food or may think it’s overpriced, do it for the experience and take all the photos!
6. Explore the shops
There are so many shops in Diagon Alley. It’s incredible! I am not one who likes shopping, but when you have shops as unique as the ones at Diagon Alley, you know I will make the stop. There are many shops with hidden gems inside as well, so be sure to check those out.
7. Watch the live performances
I absolutely love watching the live performances. I’ve seen Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees a few times, checked out the knight bus, and also watched The Tales of Beedle the Bard.
8. Pay attention to the dragon
When you get to Diagon Alley, you’ll see a big dragon sitting on top of Gringotts. Make sure to pay attention to the dragon or you’ll miss out on the fire-breathing moment! Usually, you’ll hear people getting ready in the streets with their cameras, this is a good way to know when it’s almost time.
9. Go to Knockturn Alley
If you don’t pay attention, you might miss this hidden gem. In Knockturn Alley, you’ll find the vanishing cabinet and Borgin and Burkes.
10. Find the Hidden Gems
There are quite a few hidden gems around Diagon Alley and right outside as well. Before entering Diagon Alley, you’ll notice a red telephone booth. Make sure to go inside and dial ‘magic’ to contact the ministry of magic.
If you find yourself in Grimmauld place, look over to unit #12 and wait long enough to see Kreacher by the window.
You can also find a talking mirror in Madam Malkin’s Robes for all occasion, and if you to magical menagerie, the parcel tongue snake will talk to you.
11. Ride Escape from Gringotts
While Hogsmeade does have more rides, Diagon Alley does have a ride, which is Escape from Gringotts.
There is quite a lot to do in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, so don’t miss out! If you’re looking to avoid certain things, check out this post to help make your visit better.
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