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Hogwarts Castle in Florida Sun

2026 First-timer’s Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Tickets, Rides, Tips and More!

Ready to take an adventurous journey to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Wizards call it home. Muggles call it the Islands of Adventure.

And us Harry Potter fans?

We just think of it as our own personal heaven.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most popular and iconic theme parks of all time.

With the films grossing over one billion dollars, the scrawny, green-eyed Chosen One has got many supporters in the Muggle world.

And if you are one of them good guys… WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

Here at ThemeParkHipster, we are totally obsessed with the ragtag bunch of teenagers that vanquished the Dark Lord.

Personally, I can recite the movies to you as they play– word-for-word (well, if I’ve had A LOT of coffee I can).

So, it is a small wonder that I know the Wizarding World like the back of my hand.

Luckily for you, I’m ready to spill the beans (magic or otherwise)! 

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Front Entrance to the Three Broomsticks and Long Island Tea at Harry Potter World Universal

Three Broomsticks at Universal Orlando 2026 Guide: Menu, Reservations, and More!

Would you like to dine like a wizard at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal?

Today, dear ThemeParkHipster, we are visiting Hogsmeade– the only wizarding settlement in Britain without any pesky muggles.

So, chug some Fire Whisky, let sparks shoot out of your wand and flaunt your new robes! In Hogsmeade (even if it is in Universal Studios Orlando), there’s no need to hide.

And when you’re tired from all the gallivanting and want a hot meal, head over to The Three Broomsticks. Madam Rosmerta will fix you right up!

Come on, let me show you around!

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Chief Wiggum from the Simpsons eating a big pink donut

THE BIG PINK Simpsons Donut at Universal Studios– It’s bigger than your face!

Are you ready to EAT the BIG Pink Simpsons donut at Universal Studios?

For a true Simpson’s fan, the Big Pink is a thing of legend. It is the ambrosia of the gods and the apple of Eden.

And yes, it is indeed Homer Simpson’s favorite food item.

I’m going to dial the drama down (a little) for you non-Simpson-loving creatures. 

The Big Pink (as you can probably tell by now) is the donut that features in the much-loved Simpson franchise.

The protagonist of the series– Homer Simpson, loves them to the point of obsession. He even refuses to live in a world where donuts don’t exist.

Yes, the Big Pink is that good.

Don’t trust Homer’s taste?

You can go get yourself one at Springfield– the one that exists in the real world. 

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Hogsmeade Wizarding World of Harry Potter World

A Wizard’s Guide to Ollivanders Shop at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure

Are you ready to take a secret trip with me to Ollivanders at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure?

I was browsing through The Daily Prophet while my kettle was pouring me a cuppa. And Merlin’s beard, would you believe what I found?

Ollivanders in Hogsmeade! 

Now, I knew that the Muggles actually pay to get into Diagon Alley in London (through the Portkey at Universal Studios, Florida), I also knew that Ollivanders was a huge success with the Muggles.

They love waving fake wands around while Ollivander secretly cast spells (the sly old fox).

But a whole new branch in Hogsmeade (in Universal Studios) was something I would have never predicted!

So of course, I packed up my truck (well, it packet itself), and decided to investigate both the shops.

And you, my lucky wizard/witch, are coming with me!

But hold your threstals! 

It is of utmost importance that this piece of parchment does not fall into the hands of a Muggle.

So please keep it off that thing they call the ‘Ethernet’, ‘interweb’ or whatever alright?

Alright, now grab some Floo Powder, and off to Ollivanders we go!

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Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Exterior Daytime View

Sweet Secrets of Toothsome Chocolate Emporium with PHOTOS, Menu, Reviews and more!

When you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a meal or a snack at Universal Orlando Resort there are plenty of options at both of the theme parks and CityWalk, but none is more impressive than Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen. 

The table service restaurant is known for its over-the-top milkshakes along with tasty entrees and brunch!

Keep reading to find out more about the delicious restaurant. 

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Universal Orlando Resort Lagoon with park map overlooking velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure

2026 Ultimate Guide to Islands of Adventure: First-timer Tips YOU MUST Know!

Do you need super easy Islands of Adventure tips for your first trip?

Prepping for a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort shouldn’t be hard, but I do know sometimes the small details that go into planning can get stressful at times.

First off, the resort has 3 theme parks with another one opening in the future, plus multiple hotels to choose from and the famous CityWalk.

I understand that with all those activities, you’ll want to know easy tips for going to Islands of Adventure like a pro!

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Dragon Atop Gringotts Bank Diagon Alley

11 AMAZING Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hidden Secrets and Gems You Have to Know!

Before you head to the charming Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you need to know what hidden secrets you must uncover!

There is truly nothing more magical than seeing someone step into the world that they have only read about in books.

Generations have grown up with Harry Potter and his journey and Universal was able to truly bring it to life for all walks of life to enjoy.

There are so many wonderfully magical things you can find in Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Every visit has something special for you to experience and will make you go, “Wow! Was this always there?”

Today, your favorite Ravenclaw will be sharing some of the hidden gems and secrets to look out for during your trip into Harry’s magical world.

If you listen well, I will even share some tips too!

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Velocicoaster ride at Universal Jurassic Park

First-timer’s Guide to Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal: Speed, Height, Photos and more!

You may be wondering, is Jurassic World VelociCoaster scary?

No need to worry because I’m going to give you the top 23 tips and secrets you must know before heading out to this Jurassic World inspired roller coaster.

And yeah… it’s wild, it’s crazy, but it’s also FUN!

Before we get started.

I was invited by Universal Orlando Resort to explore their wonderful roller coaster. As always, the opinions I express in this article are my own. Enjoy!

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Universal Orlando Resort Diagon Alley Dragon in Harry Potter World

25 Incredible Things to Do at Diagon Alley Universal (Definitive Guide)

Complete Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley Universal Orlando Guide for Muggles

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a dream come true for the legions of Harry Potter fans the franchise has built over the last two decades.

As one of the more popular attractions at Universal Studios, Diagon Alley features a huge selection of magical activities that range from riding the Hogwarts Express to being a part of the wand selection process first hand.

Diagon Alley is themed around the Harry Potter series written by J.K. Rowling and is a must do for any fan!

If you know me, then you know that I’m a HUGE fan of this franchise and I’d like to show you how you can enjoy Diagon Alley in the best way possible for you trip.

Let’s get started!

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Universal Orlando Resort Jurassic Park in Islands of Adventure with T-Rex coming from trees over jeep

2026 Universal Orlando Packing List Guide: What to Pack for an EPIC Trip!

Are you looking for the ULTIMATE Universal Orlando Packing list guide for your upcoming trip?

Well, look no further!

I know what it’s like preparing for a theme park vacation and not knowing where to start.

Many theme park travelers (like yourself) want to know what to pack for Universal Studios and what to wear to Universal.

That’s why I’m here to help you!

This will not be your typical packing list article that you see online. I will go into great details when it comes to preparing for Universal Orlando.

Today I will go over the following:

  • Why Your Universal Orlando Packing List is Important
  • What to Pack for Universal Orlando
  • Tips for Packing for Your Universal Trip
  • What to Know Before You Go to Universal

I will also breakdown your packing list by categories such as what to pack for a week at Universal versus a day at Universal.

So, let’s get started!

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