Secrets of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (sometimes called 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.

I have a 2023 Universal Orlando planning guide so make sure to check it out when you’re finished here. I also have a post about what to pack for Universal, so don’t forget to check that out too.

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 available whether you’re flying into Orlando or Sanford.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Secrets

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, spending lots of time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter while visiting Universal Orlando is a must. However, it can be a little overwhelming! There is so much to see, and you’ll want to take it all in.

Don’t forget that shopping is part of the Wizarding World experience. So, plan accordingly! Check out 7 things to buy at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to learn the must-buy items in the Wizarding World.

As Wizarding World fans, we have lots of tips on how to make the most of your time at Universal, so make sure to check out the links at the bottom of the page when you’re finished here.

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

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!

Back to the Hogwarts Express, 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 that 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. Just bring your wand into Ollivander’s, and a wizard will fix or replace it.

You can head over to my 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 actually trade your frog cards.

There are 10 cards total, so you’ll likely end up with some duplicates. Simply ask the witches and wizards in Honeydukes if they have the card you are looking for if you receive a duplicate.

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, and not everyone knows about it. Here’s the restroom that you need to look for:

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 Draco Malfroy tried fixing 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 in 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 throughout many other shops in Universal.

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

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.

Where to buy Universal tickets

I highly recommend buying your tickets through Undercover Tourist. There are many really scammy sites out there, so make sure you’re booking through an approved partner like Undercover Tourist.

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.

Did you enjoy this post? I would love it if you pinned it for later! Or, make sure to share it with your friends on social media if they are looking for things to do in Florida with kids.