Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is a magical place.  As described by the clever witch, J. K. Rowling, the Leaky Cauldron sign is not noticed by most muggles.  The wizards at Universal are clever indeed to recreate such an authentic place including lots of secrets to be discovered by muggles from around the globe!

 A first stop on your tour should be Ollivanders.  Watch and possibly be chosen for "The Wand Chooses the Wizard Ceremony."  As you exit through the wand shop, choose your interactive wand (or at several other locations) and use the enclosed map to cast spells and watch the magic happen!

 Enter Diagon Alley through the magic brick opening (muggles view it a little differently because of their non magical limitations).  As you enter the Wizarding World, all outside views of non magical parts of the theme parks magically disappear.  Total immersion is at hand.  You won't find muggle cola brands and brews here.  Venture in a little further and look up when you hear the grumblings of a great beast.  The dragon atop Gringott's Wizarding Bank breaths fire occasionally to the delight of muggles!  

 Refreshments are abundant in Diagon Alley.  Mouth watering menu items are available on the Leaky Cauldron menu.  Butterbeer in the traditional variety as well as frozen is available at many locations and when temperatures rise, a frozen treat such as Peanut Butter and Strawberry Ice Cream (Harry's favorite) is availab

le at Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour.

 There is a dark side to the Wizarding World.  Members of the House of Slytherin have a place to shop and cast spells.  Your eyes may take a moment to adjust to the dim light in Knockturn Alley.  This is a cool dark area with lots of spell casting opportunities and Borgen and Burkes, a shop selling dark items that appeal to the Slytherin in us all.

 Around the corner from Gringott's is Carkitt Market.  Here is a good place to savor a brew at the outdoor seating at The Hopping Pot or watch one of the shows on the stage.  See a performance by Celestina Warbeck or a puppet show depicting several tales of Beedle the Bard.

 Don't leave Diagon Alley before stopping in the shops.  Weasley Wizard Wheezes is great for joking wizard and Madam Malkin's has a variety of wizard wear!  

 Let the magic engulf you in Diagon Alley.  You might just spot a wizard masquerading as a muggle!





















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