Top Ten Things to do at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley
Corrie Krpejs11.15.18Diagon Alley, located in Universal Studios Florida, is an immersive experience that you will not want to miss. It’s a must-see for Harry Potter fans! Want to get a head start on your adventure? Stay at a Universal Orlando Resort on-site hotel and get into Diagon Alley one hour before the park opens.
- Dine at the Leaky Cauldron
The theming is fantastic here and is modeled after the Leaky Cauldron in the Harry Potter movies. You can even find the Wanted poster for Sirius Black. The Leaky Cauldron serves typical British-fare and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Ride Escape from Gringotts
The queue begins in Gringotts Bank and even has working animatronic goblins. You can get some great photographs here. This 3-D motion simulator ride is full of thrills and is an absolute must. Universal Express Pass is accepted here, must be 42” or taller to ride, and you will need to store your belongings in the lockers outside of the ride.
- Enjoy a sweet treat at Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream-Parlour
Serving both hand scoop and soft serve ice cream. Be sure to try Butterbeer, Strawberries and cream, Chocolate Chili, and Sticky Toffee pudding.
- Visit the Gringott’s Money Exchange
Have your kids turn their spending money into wizarding money. They can then use that money in any of the shops in Diagon Alley. If you don’t end up spending all your wizarding money you can exchange it back at Guest Services. Don’t forget to think of some questions to ask the Goblin once you are inside.
- Enjoy refreshments at The Hopping Pot
You can’t leave Diagon Alley without trying Butterbeer (this is non-alcoholic)! I highly recommend the frozen butterbeer. You can also try Pumpkin Juice, Gillywater, and Fishy Green Ale.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth in Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop
From Chocolate Frogs to Queen Bee Fizzing Whizzbees. You can find some great snacks and souvenirs to take home. They also carry fudge, cupcakes and our family favorite – Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans. Be sure to take a video of your kids sampling the different flavors.
- Have a laugh at Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes
In the Harry Potter novels, this is the novelty joke shop that was run by Fred and George Weasley. Look up and you notice a dazzling fireworks display. Kids will have a blast here shopping for items like Pygmy Puffs, Fever Fudge and Skiving Snackboxes. If you do purchase a Pygmy Puff for your little one be sure to take a video of the naming ceremony.
- Don’t miss Knockturn Alley
Head in to the darkness of Knockturn Alley and find Borgin and Burkes, a shop filled with collections of the Dark Arts. You can also find locations within Knockturn Alley to use your interactive wand.
- Use your interactive wand
Pick up an interactive wand at Ollivanders Wand Shop. Once there they will give you a map that shows you all the locations, spells, and wrist motions. Just look for the bronze medallions on the ground throughout Diagon Alley by the shop windows. If you need help there are usually helpful Wizards hanging around to assist you. We found that this was a great way to break up our day and take a break from the rides. One other thing to remember is that you can use them on your next trip to Universal Orlando Resort.
- Get a photo of the Dragon
About every 10-15 minutes you can get a great photo of the Dragon on top of Gringotts Bank. Night time provides the best photos and this is definitely one photo opportunity that you don’t want to miss!
Looking for more information on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Orlando Resort? I’ll be happy to help you plan your next adventure! Corrie Krpejs – Wishes Family Travel336-682-8538corrie@wishesfamilytravel.comYou can also follow me on Facebook