Ultimate Hogsmeade Guide

Universal Studios Orlando, Florida

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando is broken down into two distinct sections : Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. There are several experiences that overlap both worlds and several experiences that make both unique. Let’s look at what makes Hogsmeade unique and highlight what not to miss on your next visit.

Hogsmeade is located in the Islands of Adventure park. Hogsmeade is also the larger of the two Harry Potter lands.

Let’s breaks Hogsmeade down by what it has to offer!

Rides-

Hargrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure-This is one of the most popular rides at Universal and normally has an extremally long line so make sure you head towards this ride first. You’ll be able to enter the park early of staying onsite or if you purchased your park tickets through a certified Universal agent (ME). This ride is a rollercoaster with a regular a motorbike and sidecar seat. The 1 mile track is the longest in Florida. Express pass available.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey-This 3D ride takes you on an adventure through the grounds of Hogwarts’s. Too tight to ride or get motion sick? Ask a Universal member for a tour so you can see inside the castle. Child swap is available.

Flight of the Hippogriff-For younger riders but fun for all ages. It’s a kiddie coaster with great views of the castle as you zoom on by. Express pass available.

Hogwarts’s Express-Hogsmeade Station-Make sure you ride the train both ways since it’s a different experience. Don’t forget you need a park to park ticket to ride.

Food-

The food options in Hogsmeade are similar and different to Diagon Alley so make sure you know the difference and what to prioritize!

The Three Broomsticks-sit down, mobile ordering-exact same menu as Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley-A rustic tavern with traditional English Fare.

Hogs Head-A pub which is the perfect place for a butterbeer or alcoholic beverage of your choice, ask for the specialty brews and secret menu items. Be ware the snarling hog’s head.

Honeydukes-all the crazy candys and lemon fizzies you could ever dream of, chocolate frogs, pumpkin pasties and all the goodies.

Butterbeer Kiosks -(also available in Diagon Alley) look for the cold and frozen options perfect for those warm Florida days.

Shopping-

Dervish and Banges-Magical Items, broomsticks and your uniforms-personalized of course.

Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods-Treasures seized by Hogwarts’s caretaker.

Owl Post-Writing Supplies and where you can mail real letters postmarked from Hogwart’s-bring your own stamps or you’ll need to purchase an entire book of stamps.

Ollivander’s-Find your wand or it’ll find you.

What makes Hogsmeade distinct?

1. You’ll be able to gain early entry if staying on property OR if you purchase your tickets form a certified Universal Travel Agent (ME).
2. Hogwarts’s Castle resides in Hogsmeade.
3. Listen for moaning Myrtle in the bathrooms-and the bathrooms are true to British style in every way.
4. Stay for the seasonal lighting of Hogwarts’s castle during the holidays.
5. Halloween often ushers in Dark Arts at the castle show complete with Death Eaters.

Need help planning your trip to Universal Orlando? You can find me on Facebook at Callie at Wanderkeep Travel or you can email me at callie@wanderkeep.com and as always my services are complimentary when you book through me.