7 Best Tips for Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando (Ultimate Guide)

Complete Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando: A Guide for Muggles

Are you planning on making a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter soon? If so, you should know the best tips to experience Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando with this ultimate guide!

Universal Orlando Creative has done a spectacular job of bringing the novels of J.K. Rowling to life. As you approach the “Please Respect the Spells Limits” Hogsmeade sign, you’ll feel like you have officially made it home.

Publicity Hagrid Media Event Grand Opening Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Hogsmeade
Photo: Universal Orlando

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

What to Know Before You Go

Before you immerse yourself into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, you should know a few basic things.

Which Park is Harry Potter World Located in Orlando?

Harry Potter World in Orlando (and yes I did use that term…this is a Muggles’ guide ), is divided into two sections:

What is the Difference between Hogsmeade vs. Diagon Alley?

Hogsmeade vs Diagon Alley with fire breathing dragon and hogwarts castle
Hogsmeade vs. Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando Resort
  • Diagon Alley focuses on the Wizard’s experience shopping, dining, and socializing in the secret London location.
  • Hogsmeade focuses on the experience of the Hogwarts students living and learning inside the castle. Plus, their experiences exploring the little village of Hogsmeade.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

Does Universal Hollywood have Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley?

Universal Hollywood currently does not have a Diagon Alley section. You can still experience the Hogsmeade adventure in the Hollywood park!

What to pack for universal orlando resort. Standing with Hogwarts Express Conductor in front of red train. Hogsmeade Universal.

In this guide we’ll cover how to make the most of Hogsmeade in Orlando:

  • Hogsmeade General Information
  • Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tickets
  • Hogsmeade Rides and Attractions Available
  • Dining Options
  • Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Shops
  • Hogsmeade Tips 
  • Your Very Own Complete Itinerary 

What is Hogsmeade Universal Address?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade address is 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

What are the Hogsmeade Hours?

Hogsmeade inside Islands of Adventure is opened 365 days a year 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the regular season.

Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.

Hogsmeade Phone Number

You can reach guest services at Universal Orlando Resort by calling (407) 224-4233.

How Much are Tickets to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

There are a few options to choose from for Florida residents when buying a ticket for any of the Universal Orlando theme parks.

Cornish pixie Hagrids Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Photo: Universal Orlando

3-Park – 2-Day Ticket Starts at $134 Per Day

The 3-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park Florida Resident Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ AND Universal’s Volcano Bay™ on the same day.

Ticket is valid for any two (2) calendar days during a sixty (60) consecutive calendar day period which includes the first day any portion of the ticket is used.

2-Park – 2-Day Ticket Starts at $107 Per Day

The 2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park Florida Resident Ticket entitles one (1) guest admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida™ AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ theme parks on the same day.

Ticket is valid for any two (2) calendar days during a sixty (60) consecutive calendar day period which includes the first day any portion of the ticket is used.

*Prices are subject to change.

You can view the whole list of ticket options here and save money too!

Is there a separate ticket for Harry Potter world?

You do not need a separate ticket for Hogsmeade at Universal since it is included in your park admission.

Did you know that you can get Groupon Universal Studios tickets? You can find them here.

If you want to visit Hogsmeade, you will need a ticket to Islands of Adventure since that portion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is located there.

Visiting both areas Diagon Alley (at Universal Studios) and Hogsmeade (at Islands of Adventure) will require you to have a 2-park ticket.

Hogsmeade Rides and Attractions

Hogsmeade at Universal with steam coming from engine and guests walking around.

Now that we got some of the basic information out of the way, let’s take a look at all the rides you can enjoy inside Hogsmeade.

Dark Arts at Hogwarts™ Castle

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then you’ll be excited to hear about the brand-new Dark Arts feature being placed over Hogwarts Castle in Islands of Adventure!

I cannot wait to see this!

You will be able to enjoy the new Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle on select nights from September 14 through November 15, 2019.

ark Arts at Hogwarts Castle is Coming to Universal Orlando Resort Hogsmeade
The Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle Light Projection Show at Universal Studios Hollywood

While you’re in Hogsmeade you’ll witness a spine-chilling atmosphere complete with ominous green light and fog throughout the village.

And if you’re a fan of the Potter series, then you know this is a sign that Death Eaters have arrived!

According to Universal, the Death Eaters will eerily roam throughout Hogsmeade, lurking amongst guests – practicing the Dark Arts with complete disregard of wizarding laws. Then, “Dark Arts at Hogwarts Castle” will illuminate a darker side of the wizarding world as sinister creatures and villains – such as Dementors, Aragog, Mountain Trolls, Thestrals and more – cloak the castle through a mesmerizing display of light, music and special effects.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™

You’ll be able to fly with Hagrid™ into the magical Forbidden Forest near the grounds of Hogwarts™ on this new ride at Islands of Adventure.

Hagrids Magical Creatures and Motorbike Adventure Line Ride Vehicle Interiors Exteriors Scope Shots
Hagrids Magical Creatures and Motorbike Adventure Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

As you make your way over to Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, be prepared to see what it’s like to be one of Hagrid’s students as you board the famous motorbike.

You can read the 7 Reasons You Must Experience Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure here!

Flight of the Hippogriff™

Join Rubeus Hagrid, the care of magical creatures instructor, for a lesson on how to approach a Hippogriff.

Flight of the Hippogriff Hogsmeade Universal Orlando
Flight of the Hippogriff Hogsmeade Universal Orlando

While you’re on this family-friendly roller coaster next to Hogwarts, don’t forget to bow as you approach the Hippogriff.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™

Yes you can visit Hogwarts!

Hogsmeade at Universal Hogwarts Castle Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Once make your way around Hogsmeade Village, you’ll see the majestic Hogwarts Castle approaching.

After you board your “broom,” you’ll soar throughout the castle grounds following Harry Potter™ on an epic and magical adventure.

Watch my Universal Studios Hollywood Wizarding World of Harry Potter here!

Can you walk though Hogwarts at Universal?

Yes you can!

If you don’t want to ride this attraction, you can inform a Team Member that you would like to do a tour of the castle and they’ll lead you to the right path.

Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to take advantage of the Child Swap Program. This program works by allowing one member of your party to wait in a designated area along with any children who are unable or unwilling to participate.

Hogwarts™ Express and Hogsmeade Station

If you have a Park-to-Park admission ticket, you can board the Hogwarts™ Express at Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal’s Islands of Adventure and travel to King’s Cross Station in London at Universal Studios Florida™.

On the Hogwarts Express, you’ll get to see what it’s like to travel as wizard on this one-of-a-kind train ride.

Hogwarts Express Red train ready to go at Wizarding World of Harry Potter. King's Cross Station #harrypotter #universalstudios #diagonalley #themepark
Hogwarts Express

Hogsmeade Shops

If you’re a Potter fan, walking through the shops of Hogsmeade Village will be just as magical as the actual rides.

I sometimes call the shops in this area of Islands of Adventure an attraction in themselves. Not only will you be treated to the BEST Harry Potter merchandise in the world, you’ll also get some fun little surprises hidden within each shop.

Dervish and Banges™

In this little Hogmeade Village shop, you’ll be able to purchase an array of Potter-themed trinkets such as:

  • Brooms (the Nimbus Two Thousand and One and the Firebolt)
  • Golden Snitches
  • Hogwarts™ uniforms and clothing
  • Omnioculars
  • Quaffles,
  • Quidditch™ t-shirts,
  • Sneakoscopes
  • Spectrespecs

Filch’s Emporium™ of Confiscated Goods

Go deep below the Hogwarts Castle to explore all of the confiscated student items Argus Filch has collected over the years.

Hogsmeade at Universal Zonko and Honey Dukes Candy Shop

Honeydukes™

Take a walk through of this fabulous Hogsmeade candy shop filled with:

  • Acid Pops
  • Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans™
  • Cauldron Cakes
  • Chocolate Frogs™ complete with wizard trading cards
  • Exploding Bonbons
  • Fizzing Whizzbees,

Ollivanders™

Among the stacks of wands on the walls is your opportunity to get an official Wizarding of Harry Potter wand. Here you can buy your wand directly from Ollivanders™ wand shop.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Wand
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Wands

You’ll also be able to select from many of the famous or infamous Harry Potter™ inspired character wand replicas.

Hipster Power Tip: The Hogsmeade Village shops are really small, so try to come later towards the end of the day when crowds are lower. You’ll be able to shop peacefully and discover all the little details of each shop.

Owl Post™

This quaint shop is located adjacent to Dervish and Banges. Here you can purchase stationery items such as:

  • Ink
  • Owl-related toys and gifts
  • Quills
  • Seals
  • The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ stamps

Plus, you’re also able to mail physical letters finalized with a special Hogsmeade™ postmark!

So cool!!!

Hogsmeade Restaurants and Dining

Eating in Hogsmeade is just a magical as described in the Potter books. If you do not know, the food in the Wizarding World is exotic in nature with whimsical names to accompany them.

Let’s good through all the food options for you inside Hogsmeade Village.

Hogsmeade Village Three Broomsticks

Hog’s Head™

This grubby sanctuary is located adjacent to the Three Broomsticks™ in Hogsmeade™. Here you can not only get Butterbeer™ and Pumpkin Juice™, you’ll be able to partake in some adult libations as well.

I’ve spent too many days to count in this pub drinking with other wizards.

Three Broomsticks™

This Potter-inspired tavern is the best place to go to in Hogsmeade™ for delicious British fare.

The Three Broomsticks menu includes:

  • The ‘Great Feast Platter’
  • Fish and Chips
  • Shepherd’s Pie
  • Beef Pasties
  • Turkey Legs
  • Fresh Vegetables
  • Pumpkin Juice
  • Butterbeer

Hipster Power Tip: You can find additional Potter-inspired beverages around Hogsmeade Village at the outside carts.

7 Easy Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Tips

Harry Potter Dragon Challenge Queue
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Dragon Challenge Queue

I’ve put together a list of 7 tips to enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade. These tips can be useful on your solo trip or a trip with friends and family.

1 – Plan Your Day

Any vacation goes much smoother when it’s planned out…especially if it’s for a Florida theme park.

The only way to survive the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the come up with the perfect game plan.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Map
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Map

For example, going during the weekday instead of the weekend can make a difference in having to deal with a massive crowd or a quiet day.

Staying onsite is another way to plan the perfect day by taking advantage of the Express Pass. The Express Pass allows you to skip the regular lines an unlimited number of times at participating rides and attractions each day that your pass is valid.

2 – Start Early

I give this tip out a lot, but it’s one of the most important if you want to maximize your time in Hogsmeade.

If the park opens at 9 a.m., then try to be at the Islands of Adventure gate by 8:15 a.m.

I know this may sound ridiculous, but arriving early will make your Hogsmeade experience much more magical and exciting!

Wizards and witches gathering in Hogsmeade

Remember I mentioned that it’s always good to come back later in the evening and browse the various shops.

Why?

The crowds are at a minimum allowing you can take your time while walking through Filch’s Emporium, Dervish and Bangs, the Owl Post, and Ollivanders.

3 – Go to the Hogwarts Castle and Ride Forbidden Journey

Once arriving at Hogsmeade Village, quickly walk up to the legendary Hogwarts Express conductor for your magical picture then head back to the Forbidden Journey attraction.

Hogwarts Castle

Forbidden Journey is located inside of the Hogwarts castle.

The wait time for this attraction is usually one of the longest in Islands of Adventure. For this reason, it is best to get there early and take advantage of the short line.

If you are not into riding thrilling attractions, then you can walk through the highly themed queue and explore the castle.

4 – Visit Ollivanders

This interactive wand experience is for both the young and old. We all have a child living inside us and Ollivander will make sure to unleash it when he gives a mystical presentation inside his shop.

Hipster Power Tip: Stand in the front of the presentation. This will likely increase your chance of being chosen by Ollivander for a wand.

You will also want to make this attraction number three on your list, after Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Forbidden Journey.

The Wand and the Wizard at Ollivander’s Wand Shop

If you walk up to a long line, just remember it looks more vicious than it really is. The line usually goes by quickly with groups of about 15 guests for each performance.

5 – Eat at the Three Broomsticks

I truly enjoy eating at the Three Broomsticks whenever I’m visiting Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure.

My theme park budget is usually thrown out the window as I engage myself straight into the Potter universe.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Three Broomsticks

If you do plan to eat here, then come before the lunch rush or in the late afternoon. It’s much quieter allowing you to really enjoy the unique restaurant theme. The Three Broomsticks serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The breakfast here is also must do if you want to try a traditional English meal.

6 – Have a Butterbeer at Hogsmeade

Frozen butterbeer on a hot Florida day is a cool way to enjoy Hogsmeade. However, a warm cup of butterbeer is my favorite version of this delicious beverage.

Unfortunately, Florida is just way too hot on most days to revel in warm Butterbeer.

Warm butterbeer…it’s a winner!!!

If you’re not a fan of root beer but want to still try a rendition of it, then I suggest the warm version of butterbeer.

How is Butterbeer served?

  • Cold Butterbeer
  • Frozen Butterbeer
  • Hot Butterbeer (seasonal)
  • Potted Cream Butterbeer
  • Butterbeer Fudge
  • Soft Serve Butterbeer Ice-Cream

Where to find Butterbeer in Islands of Adventure?

You can find a Butterbeer offering of some sort inside the Hogsmeade section of Islands of Adventure at:

  • Three Broomsticks
  • Hog’s Head pub
  • Honeydukes
  • The Butterbeer street carts
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cocktail Hogshead

Be sure to take your cup outside to the back of the Three Broomsticks, slip slowly, and enjoy the magnificent view of Hogwarts.

7 – Look up, look down, look everywhere!

I love finding new things to do and explore in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. For first timers you may be overwhelmed with every incredible detail going on.

So, here are a few cool things to look for:

  • The sounds of Moaning Myrtle in the restroom
  • The shadow of a house elf quickly walking upstairs in the Three Broomsticks
  • On the Forbidden Journey, check the cabinet left of the Fat Lady for props used in the film
  • Find bottles of Skele-Gro in Filch’s Emporium
Hogsmeade Village
Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Your Hogmeade Universal One Day Itinerary

Universal Orlando Resort has created its most life-like animated figure for the most highly themed, immersive coaster experience yet, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – opening June 13. And it’s none other than Hogwarts gamekeeper and Care of Magical Creatures professor himself – Hagrid.
Universal Orlando Resort has created its most life-like animated figure for the most highly themed, immersive coaster experience yet. Photo: Universal Orlando

Final Thoughts on Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando

Lastly, have fun!

There’s so much to see and do inside Hogsmeade at Universal, so don’t worry if you don’t get to it all at once. Whatever you don’t do in that day can be the inspiration for your next visit!

These are just a few fun ways to explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Wizarding world of harry potter Hogsmeade Universal with majestic Hogwarts in the background.
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If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:

Are you planning a Universal Orlando vacation soon? Get the Universal Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

NikkyJ

(Original article date October 29, 2017/Last Updated September 11, 2019)

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