The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
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Based on the world-renowned Harry Potter books, movies, and media franchise, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a fantastical and immersive experience with three locations. One location is at Universal Studios Hollywood in California and has been open since 2016. Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida has two Harry Potter-themed areas, including at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Note that when visiting Orlando, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios are two different theme parks and will require two different tickets.
During your visit, you'll access the Wizarding World of Harry Potter by hopping aboard an enchanting life-sized replica of the train in the movie. The railway, Hogwarts Express, will take you to the attraction, which includes roller coasters and other thrill rides, gift shops, themed restaurants, and live performances.
How to Get There
In Florida, the nearest major cities are Orlando and Tampa, both of which have international airports. You can take the Sunrail to access the theme park, and several busses stop nearby as well.
In California, the nearest major city is Los Angeles, which also has an international airport. From the airport, you can take a shuttle to Union Station downtown, and then take the Metro rail to the Universal / Studio City Station stop.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers a magical experience for fans of the series.
Ticket Information
You can get tickets for Harry Potter through the official website. When you purchase tickets for Universal Studios Orland, Islands of Adventure, or Universal Studios Hollywood, you do not need a separate ticket to enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter area. It's a good idea to check the specifics of the different prices and packages on the official website, as prices vary seasonally. Generally, ticket costs start at around $109 per person. You can save money by buying online in advance; tickets cost more at the gate when you arrive.
Family-Friendly Options
Harry Potter fans of any age will enjoy a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, though children younger than 5 may not appreciate it as much as older children. Some of the rides also have minimum height requirements, so children smaller than 48 inches tall will have fewer rides to choose from. However, there's an abundance of things to see and experience, so everyone will enjoy their visit.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To make the most of your time at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, check the live performance schedule in advance to make sure you don't miss any of the puppetry acts or musical performances. You can use the Universal Orlando Resort app to check wait times for rides, find the performance schedules and to plan your itinerary.
First, make sure you stop by the iconic Hogwarts Castle. Fans will notice the incredible attention to detail in this attraction. Next, take on some of the rides. Fly on a broomstick with Harry at Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and tame a Hippogriff to take flight at the Flight of the Hippogriff ride. Watch out for magical creatures such as the massive Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon and Buckbeak the Hippogriff as you make your way to Hogsmeade Village where you can stop by Three Broomsticks pub for a fresh or frozen Butterbeer. Shop for treasures and magic wands at Diagon Alley, and when your feet need a break, take time to watch a live performance like The Tales of Beedle the Bard, watch the Triwizard Tournament, or watch the choir of singing frogs at The Frog Choir.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Accommodations
On Site Accommodations
In Florida, you'll find several on-site hotels to choose from. Staying at one of these hotels allows you to skip the regular lines at some of the rides, which is a great benefit. Universal Studios in California does not have any on-site accommodations, but it does have special packages with partner hotels, including Hilton Los Angeles - Universal City and Sheraton Universal Hotel, both of which are just a mile away.
Campgrounds Nearby
If you like a little extra beauty in your surroundings, Hollywood RV Park may be a great pick for your trip. One of the best features is the beautiful art murals all around the park. Hollywood RV Park also caters to the entertainment industry.
With a convenient location just 30 minutes from Hollywood, Walnut RV Park lets you stay close to all the top entertainment attractions. You can check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios Hollywood before coming back to relax in your own RV. The resort is also close to other popular attractions, including the Los Angeles Zoo, Santa Monica Pier, and Magic Mountain.
Dockweiler RV Park is located in the town of Playa del Rey. This option for RV camping in Costa Mesa is situated directly on the beach, and it is close to numerous amenities. Los Angeles International Airport is nearby, and the beach stays warm all year-round.
Activities Near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Things to Do
Nature Preserves
Orlando's many nature preserves are the perfect place to relax and observe the natural world. Head to Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge, Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve, or Split Oak Forest Mitigation Park. You'll find lots of flora and fauna near Universal Studios Hollywood at the Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve.
Hiking
Griffith Park is not too far away from Universal Studios in Hollywood and has myriad excellent hiking trails to choose from. One shady and flat option for stretching your legs in Orlando is the Shingle Creek Trail: Pine Island East Loop, which is also popular with cyclists.
Aquatic Sports
In Orlando, head to Lake Bryant, where you can rent a jet ski or go kayaking or boating. In California, head to the marina at Marina del Rey or to Lake Balboa in Van Nuys to get out on the water.
National Parks
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
Visiting either Orlando or California on a rainy day will certainly put a damper on your visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but some attractions can still be enjoyed from the shelter of an umbrella or indoors. Rain is rare in southern California, especially during the summer. Generally, the rainy season in Florida lasts from mid-May to mid- or late October.
When planning your trip, remember that you'll be doing lots of walking, so pack comfortable and sturdy shoes to make the most of your visit.
Safety & Accessibility
For guests with a disability that makes waiting in line a challenge, you can request an Attractions Assistance Pass online. Be sure to explore this option well in advance of your visit because it requires registration and documentation in order to apply. Although all shops and restaurants are fully accessible to all guests, some rides and attractions do have limitations. You can check out the website for a full list.
For guests who require service animals, some portable kennels are available at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter upon request. You can also rent a wheelchair or an Electric Convenience Vehicle (ECV), but limited quantities are available. Head to the Parking and Transportation Center or the theme park entrances to find the wheelchair rental facilities.
Conclusion
FAQ
You'll have to drive a bit out of the city to find campsites when visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in California. Hollywood RV Park is nearby, but it is often full. In Florida, there's a few campgrounds and RV parks scattered throughout the greater Orlando area, including at Bill Frederick Park and the Orlando/Kissimmee KOA Holiday.
Yes. There are ample RV-friendly parking spots at all Harry Potter locations, and you'll have to pay a parking fee and the prices vary. Expect to pay around $30 for parking at either location.
Consider purchasing an Express Pass, which allows you to enjoy shorter wait times for most attractions. With an Express Pass, you can skip some lines, allowing you to experience more action-packed fun within a reduced amount of time.
Yes, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is very family friendly and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. View a map of the park to find the family restrooms, which are located throughout. If you need a nursing facility, you'll find it located near the First Aid station.
With the exception of service animals, pets aren't allowed at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Before your visit, be sure to make arrangements for your pets.