Secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (sometimes wrongly alled Harry Potter World) is magical on its own. However, it’s even more magical when you know some of the hidden secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

We have a 2025 Universal Orlando planning guide, so check it out when you’re finished here. We also have a post about what to pack for Universal to help you plan your Universal vacation.

Do I need a rental car for a Universal vacation?

I like to get around as needed while on vacation, so I like to rent a car. If you decide to rent a car in Orlando, I recommend renting a car from Discount USA Car Rental.

Discount USA Car Rental offers the best rates, whether you’re flying into Orlando or Sanford.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Secrets

Now, let’s get right into the secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

If you have just one day, check out how to do the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day.

1. Ride the Hogwarts Express both ways

This isn’t really a secret, but make sure you ride the Hogwarts Express in both directions. A valid park-to-park ticket is required.

Oh, and by the way, don’t call it a “Park Hopper” ticket. We aren’t at Disney here. 😉 Everyone will know you’re a Universal newb if you call your ticket a park hopper!

Don’t worry; we like Disney too! Don’t miss some of our best Disney content, like where to find Dole Whip at Disney World and how to keep cool at Disney World. The tips on how to stay cool at Disney World also apply to staying cool at Universal. Plus, the A/C in Kings Cross Station is great!

Don’t miss the Best Instagram Spots at Universal Orlando, which include many places in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

The experience from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade is different than the experience from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley, so you’ll want to try both.

 

2. The Wands are actually magical

The wands you can purchase at Ollivander’s (and other spots around the park) are truly magical! They do not run on batteries and will last forever. Or, at least, for a very long time.

If you have a problem with your wand, have no fear. Mr. Garrick Ollivander guarantees his wands for life. Bring your wand into Ollivander’s, and a wizard will fix or replace it.

You can head over to our YouTube channel to watch the Wand Ceremony at Ollivander’s, along with lots of other Universal Orlando content. The wand ceremony is a must-do experience for any witch or wizard!

3. You can trade Chocolate Frog cards

Everyone loves chocolate frogs, but be careful because these large chunks of chocolate melt quickly in the Orlando heat. 😉

One of the lesser-known secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is that you can trade your frog cards.

There are 10 cards total, so you’ll likely end up with some duplicates. Ask the witches and wizards in Honeydukes if they have the card you want if you receive a duplicate and would like to trade.

Here are the cards that are currently available:

• Albus Dumbledore
• Godric Gryffindor
• Helga Hufflepuff
• Rowena Ravenclaw
• Salazar Slytherin
• Hengist of Woodcroft
• Gilderoy Lockhart
• Jocunda Sykes
• Devlin Whitehorn
• Bertie Bott

If you’re not a fan of chocolate or card trading, do not fear, Honeyduke’s offers something for everyone! We share some of the allergy-friendly candy in NEW Vegan food at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

4. Get a surprise from Moaning Myrtle in the restroom at Hogsmeade

If you listen carefully, you’ll hear Moaning Myrtle in the restrooms in Hogsmeade. This isn’t really one of the secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but it is a lot of fun!

 

5. Listen to the vanishing cabinet in Borgin and Burke’s in Knockturn Alley

This is one of the secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that only true fans will understand.

If you listen carefully at Borgin and Burke’s in Knockturn Alley, you’ll hear a surprise that calls back to Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Do you remember how Malfroy was trying to fix the cabinet in the Room of Requirement? If not, maybe you should read the books and find out for yourself.

If you’re more of a movie person, have no fear. I have a blog post with 30+ moves to watch before going to Universal, including the Harry Potter movies, of course.

6. The Hogwarts Express is the only way to bring alcohol between the two parks

Fun fact for witches and wizards over the age of 21: the Hogwarts Express is the only way to bring alcohol between the two parks! You can even purchase a beer while waiting in line for the Hogwarts Express. For kids and anyone who doesn’t drink, feel free to bring your Butterbeer or Pumpkin Juice along for the ride!

7. Exchange your muggle money

You can exchange your muggle money for Gringotts notes at the Gringotts Money Exchange. Don’t forget to talk to the goblin first, and he actually answers your questions!

The Gringotts notes are a fun souvenir but can also be used in Diagon Alley and many other Universal shops.

Planning a Universal Vacation? I’ll be your Travel Agent!

Choosing me as your Universal Travel Agent ensures you’ll have the most exceptional and worry-free experience on your journey to Universal Theme Parks. With a wealth of knowledge and insights, I can provide invaluable guidance, helping you know exactly what to expect during your visit.

As a Universal annual passholder AND certified Travel Agent, I have firsthand experience with the parks, rides, dining options, and more. Contact me to start planning a Universal Orlando vacation today.

Secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

There you have it, 7 secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Did you learn anything new? I know that the Wizarding World has many more secrets, so feel free to share your favorites in the comments below.

More Universal Orlando tips and tricks

• 7 things to buy at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• The best bags for Universal Studios
• How to Eat at Universal on a Budget
• Worst rides for motion sickness at Universal
• The problem with Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure
• 15 Amazing Volcano Bay Tips and Volcano Bay Hacks
• First-Timer Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• The 20 Best Beaches near Orlando for Families
• What is a ghost room at Universal Orlando?

Where to stay at Universal Orlando

I highly recommend staying at a Universal Orlando resort. There are options for every budget, from those wanting an inexpensive place to stay (Endless Summer) to those who want the best of the best (Loews Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel.)

All Universal Resorts come with early park entry and free transportation to and from the parks.

The Premier level resorts, which are Hard Rock, Portofino Bay, and Royal Pacific, also include a free Express Pass for all guests and preferred seating at restaurants throughout Universal.

I highly recommend any of these resorts, as the Express Pass can be very valuable on a busy day. Check out The Best Place to Stay at Universal Orlando to learn more.

Check out current pricing for all Universal Resorts can be found here:

• Hard Rock Hotel
• Loews Portofino Bay
• Loews Royal Pacific
• Aventura Hotel
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Universal Endless Summer Resorts – Dockside Inn and Suites and Seaside Inn and Suites.

About Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

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