The Ultimate USA Harry Potter Travel Guide and How to Save in The Wizarding World

Welcome to the Ultimate USA Harry Potter Travel Guide! If you have read all the books and watched all the movies, thirty times, then you are probably longing to experience some of Harry’s magical world in real life. This guide will give you everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to the Harry Potter World of Wizarding. From must-see attractions to insider tips and tricks to save money, we've got you covered.

The Harry Potter World of Wizarding in the US

Let's start with the basics. Where can you go to feel the Hogwarts magic for yourself? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is located in two theme parks in the USA: Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. Hogsmeade can be found at both parks, while Diagon Alley is exclusive to Universal Orlando Resort.

Harry Potter World Orlando, Florida

For wannabe wizards and witches, the Harry Potter World in Orlando is a must-see. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando comprises two separate ‘parks’ in the Universal Studios Park in Florida. The wizarding town of Hogsmeade can be found in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, while Diagon Alley can be experienced in Universal Studios Florida. The two parks are connected by the Hogwarts Express!

Must-See Attractions

Explore Diagon Alley. Start your wizarding world experience in much the same way as Harry did by first visiting Diagon Alley. Be sure to pop into Ollivanders to get your own special wand. Included in your wand box is a map. You can use your ‘magical’ wand at ten different stations throughout the two parks. Other Diagon Alley attractions and fantastical places to stock up on your own magical supplies include Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop, Weasley’s Wizardly Wheezes, the Magical Menagerie, and Quality Quidditch Supplies. You can also grab a bite to eat at The Leaky Cauldron.

Purchased all your magical merchandise? Head on over to King Cross Station to catch the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade. Once you have visited Hogsmeade, be sure to catch the Hogwarts Express back to Diagon Alley. It is a different experience.

Pro-tip: Make sure to get the park hopper pass so you can move between the two parks.

There is plenty to see and do in Hogsmeade

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey: This thrilling ride takes you on a journey through Hogwarts Castle and the Forbidden Forest.
• Flight of the Hippogriff: This family-friendly coaster takes you on a ride with Hagrid's favorite magical creature.
• Grab a Butterbeer and a bite to eat at The Three Broomsticks.
• Stay until the end of the day to watch the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts.

Pro-tip: Arrive at the parks before they open to beat the crowds and make the most of your day. Even better, get an early access pass so you can enter Diagon Alley as early as 08:00 am.

Harry Potter World in California

For an immersive wizarding world experience, you can also visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Hollywood in California. This fantasy land is smaller than its Florida cousin, but just as enjoyable!

The main attraction is the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Hogwarts Castle at the back of the park. There is also a smaller roller coaster: The Flight of the Hippogryph which lets you soar on a Hippogryph through Hagrid’s pumpkin patch.

Buy an interactive wand at Ollivander’s and enjoy wizarding world-inspired refreshments at The Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Insider tips

1. If you're willing to ride alone, the Single Rider Lines can save you a lot of time.
2. Buy your tickets in advance. You can save money and avoid long lines by buying your tickets online ahead of time.
3. If you want to make the most of your day at the Wizarding World, consider purchasing an Express Pass to skip the lines and maximize your time in the parks.
4. Look for accommodation on site. Staying at one of Universal's on-site hotels gives you early access to the parks and free transportation to and from the parks. However, these may not always be the most budget-friendly options. If you want to save on accommodation, opt for a Harry Potter-inspired Airbnb.

How to save

Get the most from your Harry Potter experience without blowing your muggle budget with these five magical saving tips.

1. Buy tickets in advance: Buying your tickets in advance can save you money.
2. Look for deals: Check Universal's website and social media channels for deals and promotions.
3. Bring your own food: You're allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the parks, which can save you a lot of money.
4. Shop outside the parks: If you want to purchase Harry Potter merchandise, consider shopping outside the parks. You can often find the same items at a lower price.
5. Use a travel rewards credit card: If you're planning on traveling to the Wizarding World, consider using a travel rewards credit card to earn points that you can use towards your trip.

Harry Potter Flagship Store

For HP fans, no trip to New York would be complete without a visit to the Harry Potter store at 935 Broadway. Immerse yourself in two floors full of exciting wizarding world merchandise. Including wands, treats, stationery, and clothing. Enjoy interactive wand shopping, and personalized merchandise, take a selfie inside a Ministry Phone Box, and grab a pint of the famous wizarding drink at the Butterbeer Bar.

Insider Tips

1. The closest subway station to the HP store is 23rd Street.
2. There is a QR code to control the number of visitors entering the store at a time. Get to the store early to scan the QR code and get your spot in the queue.
3. Set aside an hour or two to make the most of your visit to this store.

Wizarding World Adventures on a Budget

We hope this Ultimate USA Harry Potter Travel Guide helps you plan the perfect excursion to the Wizarding World! For muggles and wizards alike, Save.com is an inspiring resource for advice on how to save when you are on holiday or planning excursions. Whether you are looking for ideas for old-fashioned fun in the summer or breathtaking national parks to explore in spring, we've got you covered. Another great way to save is to keep your eye open for specials. For the ultimate savings, check the Coupon Book Finder to see whether it's available in your area.