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!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO. Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
1. Trade in Your Muggle Money
Because we are traveling into a new world, just like when you would exchange your American currency for the currency of the country you’re visiting, you can do that here.
You just have to take a quick trip to the Gringotts Money Exchange to trade it in.
The great thing is that the bank notes can be used throughout the wizarding world including Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade and select Universal Orlando locations. You can exchange for $10 or $20 denominations.
These could also make super cool and affordable souvenirs for you to take home or even frame for your home as décor.
Any unused money can be exchanged back to American currency at Guest Services if you wish.
Get up to 25% off of your Universal Orlando Vacation with Groupon TODAY!
2. Pay Moaning Myrtle a Visit
Moaning Myrtle is a very popular part of the Harry Potter books.
She can be seen briefly in the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction in Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure.
Many are aware that Moaning Myrtle is famous for her frequent visits to the bathroom. Upon entering the restrooms in Hogsmeade, one might encounter Myrtle attempting to engage in conversation.
Myrtle might complain a little about folks laughing at her when she’s not around, then she’ll totally want you to swing by again!
Could be a bit creepy in a way haha but a fun nod to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
3. Send a Postcard via Owl Post
When you are exploring the Owlery, you can find little things like cuckoo clock where an owl pops out every hour.
When you glance up, you’ll spot owls chillin’ on their perches, just hanging out until they get the next gig.
But one of the cool things you can do at the Owlery is send a postcard or letter.
You can bring a stamped envelope with you or choose from the stationary and stamps they have available for purchase.
It’s a fun way to bring the magic to your home or any friend or family.
4. Adopt a Pygmy Puff
When visiting Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, you can see so many glorious things. But one of the fun things you can do is adopt a pygmy puff and have a ceremony performed.
Once you’ve picked out your Pygmy Puff, just head over to the counter and let them know you’re ready for the ceremony.
They’ll throw a few easy questions your way, like what your name is, what you named your Pygmy Puff, and if you’ve adopted one before.
Next, they’ll ring a huge bell to grab the store’s attention. The cashier will share the adoption news and get everyone to clap in joy.
It’s so magical!
Now if you’re an introverted person, you don’t have to ask to have a ceremony performed but it’s always fun for kids young and young at heart to try.
5. Merlin’s Beard! You Look Amazing!
This particular secret I discovered while exploring a store I almost never go in, Madame Malkin’s Robes.
As I had never been drawn to buy robes due to the Florida heat, I had never thought to just explore but I’m glad I did.
Inside, you will find a mirror that talks!
When you stand in front of it, it’ll chat with you. Whether this mirror gives you a sweet compliment or pokes fun at your style is a toss-up. Either way, it’s a blast to check it out!
This is one of the coolest Wizarding World of Harry Potter hidden secrets.
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
6. Wizarding Speakeasy
One of my favorite wizarding photo spots is not actually found in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
This is because people almost never notice it and therefore its usually not crowded.
There is an alley between Revenge of the Mummy and Transformers 3-D. Look down a small flight of steps to see a door with a “Blind Pig” poster on it.
This is the name of the speakeasy from “Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them.” It’s such a great spot to rest a bit and take a photo in your wand and robes.
7. Dial “M” for Magic
Right outside Kings Cross station, you’ll spot one of those classic red phone booths that you always see in London.
But trust me, even in London, things aren’t always what they appear to be.
Hey, if you step into the phone booth near Diagon Alley, you can totally call the Ministry of Magic! Just dial “62442” for a surprise!
This is a cool throwback to when Arthur Weasley took Harry to the ministry in Order of the Phoenix, but unfortunately, no visit is happening this time.
8. Enter at Your Own Risk
Only the brave, or possibly stupid, enter Knockturn Alley.
Knockturn Alley is where Harry accidentally ends up when he isn’t clear with his floo powder to transport him to Diagon Alley.
Knockturn Alley is home to the notorious Borgin and Bourkes shop. It’s a spot where you can check out and find loads of demented stuff from the movie.
You can see the enchanted closet that Malfoy used to allow the Death Eaters access to Hogwarts. You can even hear the bird he used to test it inside.
When inside, pay attention to the floor as you will occasionally see flashes of green. Fans know there is only one spell that flashes green. This is one of the best Wizarding World of Harry Potter hidden secrets.
9. Somebody’s Watching
You may catch yourself passing by a row of London houses near the waterfront as you pass by Diagon Alley.
There’s this iconic house from the Harry Potter series that you definitely need to check out. You can snap a pic right in front of Number 12 Grimmauld Place.
This is where some key meetings happened that were super important to Harry’s journey and everyone in the Wizarding World.
But watch out, there’s someone keeping an eye from the window. If you hang around, you might spot the house elf, Kreacher.
Get up to 25% off of your Universal Orlando Vacation with Groupon TODAY!
10. Potions Lessons
Sometimes, the wait to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey can be a bit long.
Luckily, there are tons of stuff to keep you entertained in the different rooms as you explore.
At some point, you’ll stroll by a Potions class and might catch a lesson in action, giving you a chance to snag some handy tips. This is one of the coolest Wizarding World of Harry Potter hidden secrets.
11. Gringotts Bank Goblins
While entering Gringotts for your tour of the safest bank in the world, you will first enter into the most grandiose room where you will see goblins working.
You might not pay them any mind but they certainly have their eye on you.
When you spot a goblin, it’ll glance up at you, jot down some notes, and then go about its business. They’re always keeping an eye out.
Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!
My Final Thoughts on the Best Harry Potter Hidden Secrets at Universal Orlando
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter continues to make magic for fans everyday whether you see it or not.
There is always something that is waiting to be found every visit and that’s what truly makes it special.
Even in the streets of London, there is magic to be found. But that’s what makes the experience great.
So always keep an eye out for those small nods to Harry Potter history and lore when you visit Universal Orlando Resort because there is always magic to be found.
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home.
UP NEXT: SMACKDOWN: All Wizarding World of Harry Potter Rides Ranked!
(Original Article Date: August 11, 2021/Updated by Editor on February 18, 2024)