12 ways to have the best time at Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Here's how to make the most of your visit to the new attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood.
These insider tips and tricks will help you experience the best of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood.
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1. Arrive early. It’s a theme-park mantra, but it's the best way to beat the crowds.
2. Hit the attractions in this order: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the Ollivanders wand-selection show, Flight of the Hippogriff. Forbidden Journey is by far the most popular ride, and the Ollivanders show has the slowest line thanks to low-occupancy issues.
3. The Hollywood park is roughly a third the size of the original Wizarding World at Universal Orlando. Once Hogsmeade reaches capacity, head to one of the dozens of self-serve kiosks for a free time-stamped entry ticket.
4. If your child is lucky enough to be chosen for a new wand in the Ollivanders show, he or she will probably want to take it home. The price is nearly $50 with tax. Stand near the back of the room if you’d prefer to be a spectator than buyer.
5. Adults and older kids may want to skip Flight of the Hippogriff if lines are long. The short, tame roller coaster is better suited for Super Silly Fun Land (Universal’s kiddie park from “Despicable Me”).
6. Not a fan of uniquely British fare? Fill up on burgers or pizza before entering Hogsmeade. Its only restaurant, Three Broomsticks, serves shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, beef stew and the like. Those with finicky palates may be disappointed.
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7. Tour the Three Broomsticks, an exquisitely detailed rustic tavern, even if you're not eating. The bar is to the right, should you want a beer while soaking in the atmosphere.
8. If tempted to buy wizard robes, ask yourself, “Where else would I wear this?” If the answer is, “Only at a renaissance fair,” think twice.
9. By all means indulge in Butterbeer, a sweet drink tasting largely of butterscotch. One will likely be enough. For an additional $10 you can keep the souvenir mug.
10. Take a break at Universal Citywalk, an outdoor mall with shops and restaurants adjacent to the park. You will have to go through security again when re-entering.
11. Harry Potter fans will find all sorts of references to the books and movies, some so obscure that visitors may not even recognize them. The land was designed and built by noted Potter experts including author J.K. Rowling.
12. Take your time and absorb all the details, including the tilted chimneys, glistening icicles and worn staircases. There is far more to see than do in the new land.
