Top 5 Things to See at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
If you talk to any major Harry Potter fan, they will probably tell you that their dream is to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. The magical theme park opened up in 2016 and has been an incredible success ever since at both LA and Orlando locations. However, an impressive park unfortunately invites battling crowds, extremely long lines, and the feeling of being overwhelmed. To avoid spending hours roaming around the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with no idea what you’re looking for, I’ve compiled my top 5 things to see and visit so you can spend your time most efficiently! Now, my list does not include the rides Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff because obviously, those are a must visit no matter what (duh!).
Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Experience
If you are planning to visit USH this holiday season, make sure you make some time to view the “Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter” experience. Beginning on November 24, 2017 and continuing through January 7th, 2018, this dazzling Hogwarts light projection is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It transforms Hogwarts into a holiday winter wonderland and the technology behind it is unimaginable. Showtimes vary by days but on the day I went, it played at 5:20pm, 5:40pm, and 6:00pm. For an example of what this looks like, check out my Story Highlights on my profile here under “Universal Studios”! *Note: only works when opening my profile within the Instagram app*
In addition to the illumination of the Hogwarts Castle, Universal Studios Hollywood celebrated the holiday spirit by introducing a new Holiday Dinner at the Three Broomsticks Restaurant, an a cappella Frog Choir comprised of Hogwarts students and their throaty frogs, as well as a variety of new holiday HP ornaments and stocking stuffers!
2. Butter Beer
If you have read the books, you’ll know what Butter Beer is, and you’ll know how amazing it is that one can finally get a taste of that wonderful, mysterious (non-alcoholic) beverage at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. During this holiday season, you can even choose to have hot Butter Beer!! As for me, I tried the frozen concoction and it tasted very similar to what I imagined in my head from reading the books. Very sweet, a tad buttery, very reminiscent of a caramel slush with milk froth. Definitely worth a try to get the full Harry Potter experience. 🙂
3. Three Broomsticks
The Three Broomsticks is a popular inn and pub that Harry, Ron, and Hermione regularly frequented to drink butter beer and meet up with Hagrid in the Harry Potter series. The environment is warm, friendly, yet old (very medieval times) and a bit dingy. For the holiday season, I mentioned above that the Three Broomsticks introduced a new Holiday Dinner that you can try yourself! It has roast turkey, gravy, pigs in blankets, a medley of vegetables, braised red cabbage, and roasted potatoes along with some cranberry sauce and Christmas pudding.
When I came, I personally didn’t try it but I did get the Bangers & Mash and the Lemon Herb Roast Chicken Platter. Click here for my full Three Broomsticks review if you want to know more the dishes. Both platters were really tasty and I highly recommend stopping by the Three Broomsticks for some delicious English food and to also give yourself a break from all the walking.
4. Honeydukes
If it’s your first time at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I’d highly suggest checking out Honeydukes whether you’ve read the books or not. Even if you don’t understand the context of Chocolate Frogs or Pumpkin Pasties, this legendary magical sweets shop will amuse you with its variety of sugar-filled desserts and outrageous flavours and colours.
5. Ollivanders
The world of Harry Potter would not be as mystical and imaginative if it were not for the wands from Ollivanders. Here, you can experience first hand what it is like being fitted for your own unique wand and of course, you have the option of purchasing them as well to bring home. When I came, there was a line up so our group of about 20 watched two people get selected for the fitting. Note, if you have a Universal Express pass, this does not get you in front of the line since it is a retail experience and not an official ride or show.
All in all, it’ll be very difficult to have a bad time at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Universal Studios for that matter. Just make sure you do your research beforehand, download the Universal Studios app to keep track of wait times throughout the day, and plan your day accordingly. Follow my top 5 things to do and you’ll be sure to experience the most important features while leaving plenty of time to go on all the other rides and attractions!
Happy Travelling!
