Through Diagon Alley and Beyond
Diagon Alley & Hogsmeade From Platform 9¾
to Gringotts, Rides, Butterbeer & More
Enchanted Arrival at Universal Orlando
With a sparkle in her eyes and a wide grin on her face, Day stepped out of the Uber as if she were stepping off the Knight Bus itself. The driver had dropped us off with precision—right at the base of the grand staircase that led toward the entrance of Universal Studios. Excitement shimmered in the humid Florida air like invisible magic waiting to be unleashed.
Today wasn’t just any day. It was the kind of day you dream about when you’ve read the books a hundred times, watched the films until the DVDs cracked, and practiced wand flicks in your bedroom mirror. We were about to enter a world where dragons guard bank vaults, butterbeer flows freely, and wands truly choose the wizard.
Welcome to Universal Orlando Resort, home to not one but three spellbinding theme parks:
- Universal Islands of Adventure
- Universal Studios Florida
- Universal Epic Universe (opening soon)
On this trip, we would journey through two of them. No Time-Turners needed—just a Park-to-Park ticket and a thirst for magic.
Though some witches and wizards opt to travel between parks via the Hogwarts Express, we chose a slower, more deliberate approach. One park per day. One realm of magic to uncover at a time. After all, a true witch knows: you don’t rush enchantment.
And somewhere, hidden in the back corner of Universal Studios Florida, awaited our destination—the gateway to Diagon Alley, guarded not by goblins, but by fire-breathing dragons and cobblestone secrets.
We had entered The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
We headed straight to the back of the park, following signs toward “Leicester Square,” where our dreams materialized into the brick archway of Platform 9¾. With a collective breath, we stepped into Diagon Alley—literally crossing the threshold from Muggle to wizarding world.
The air carried faint notes of London fog and mystery. Wandering street performers, the towering Knight Bus, and the bustle of excited wizards and witches brought the literary world to vivid life.
🪄 The Wand Chooses the Witch: Day’s Magical Moment at Ollivanders
Naturally, our very first stop in Diagon Alley was Ollivanders Wand Shop. Day could hardly wait—after all, a true witch never begins her adventure unarmed. And so it was decided: before dragons, before butterbeer, before any spells could be cast… a wand had to be found.
But stepping into Ollivanders is like stepping into a world of ancient magic. The air was thick with dust and mystery. Towering shelves loomed above us, each creaking under the weight of hundreds—perhaps thousands—of narrow boxes, each containing a wand just waiting for its rightful owner.
And that’s when the overwhelm began.
So many wands. So many choices. What wood? What core? Dragon heartstring or unicorn hair? The decision felt impossible. Day tried wand after wand, each one impressive, each one full of potential—but none of them… hers. A flick here, a swish there—nothing. No light, no spark, no whisper of magic.
Time passed.And then… the lights dimmed.
A hush fell over the small group gathered in the room. A soft creaking sound echoed through the shop as an elderly wandkeeper emerged from the back, robes flowing, eyes glinting with knowing wisdom. “Welcome to Ollivanders,” he said. “Makers of fine wands since 382 B.C.”
And before we knew it—he turned to Day.
“You there,” he said, stepping toward her, “yes… I believe you may be ready.”
All eyes turned to her. My heart skipped a beat as Day was gently led to the front of the room, her face glowing with surprise, curiosity, and a hint of nerves.
The wandkeeper pulled a slim, aged box from the shelves and handed her the wand inside. “Try this one,” he said softly.
She gave it a graceful flick—books flew off a shelf. “Ah. Perhaps not,” the wandkeeper muttered, quickly replacing it.
A second wand. This time, the lights flickered wildly and wind rustled through the shop. “Still not quite right,” he whispered.
And then… it happened.
The third wand.
Day wrapped her fingers around the handle, and instantly—everything changed. A soft golden light shimmered around her. The air sparkled. The wand vibrated slightly in her hand, alive with energy. The wandkeeper’s eyes widened. “Curious… very curious. Ebony wood, with a unicorn hair core. Strong. Loyal. A perfect match.”
It was just like in the film—but this time, it was real. For Day, that moment was unforgettable. The wand had chosen her.
With her new wand in hand, we left the shop—spellbound.
And the magic? Oh, it was just beginning.
As we explored Diagon Alley, she began using her wand at the interactive spell spots scattered throughout the streets. Her map became her guide, and every marked location was an opportunity to bring the magic to life. Lamps flickered on with a flick of her wrist, quills danced in shop windows, and magical doors opened with graceful
Diagon Alley
As we explored Diagon Alley, she began using her wand at the interactive spell spots scattered throughout the streets. Her map became her guide, and every marked location was an opportunity to bring the magic to life. Lamps flickered on with a flick of her wrist, quills danced in shop windows, and magical doors opened with graceful precision.
Some spells needed a little practice—after all, wandwork is no easy task—but Day’s unicorn-core wand responded with confidence and charm. It was as if the Wizarding World itself was waiting for her all along.
Butterbeer & British Fare
We paused at The Leaky Cauldron for a classic British lunch—bangers & mash paired with cold Butterbeer. Throughout the day we sampled frozen, classic, and even hot variations of Butterbeer . Bodies recharged, we continued our exploration with full bellies and full hearts.
🚂 A Visit to Platform 9¾ – The Hogwarts Express Moment
After exploring the wonder and excitement of Diagon Alley, we made our way toward King’s Cross Station, where the legendary Hogwarts Express departs from Platform 9¾. The entrance—tucked between red brick walls and bustling London signage—was so perfectly recreated, it felt like we were moments away from boarding the train to Hogwarts itself.
And while we didn’t ride the Hogwarts Express this time (we chose to explore one park per day), we did take our time to soak in every detail. The platform was buzzing with energy—smoke rising from the engine, the iconic scarlet locomotive gleaming under the lights, and the whistle echoing through the air like a call to adventure.
Most magical of all? Day got to meet the train conductor, the same robed, mustached wizard seen helping students board the train in the films. He posed for a photo with us, wand in one hand, lantern in the other, and a knowing twinkle in his eye—as if he knew we were destined for great things.
It may have been a brief stop on our journey, but the feeling of standing there, right in front of the Hogwarts Express, was unforgettable. For a moment, it didn’t matter that we weren’t boarding. We were there—on Platform 9¾—and the magic was just as real.
Top 5 Must-Do Magical Experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Ollivanders Wand Experience
Be chosen by a wand (or help your child be chosen) in the magical wand ceremony—straight out of the film! - Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
A spellbinding ride inside Hogwarts Castle that combines motion, 4K visuals and set magic. - Try All the Butterbeer Versions
Frozen, hot, cold, soft serve… try them all and find your favorite! - Cast Real Spells with Your Wand
Use your interactive wand to light lanterns, move magical objects, and unlock hidden secrets around Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. - Explore Every Corner of Diagon Alley
From Gringotts to Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, every detail hides a story. Look up, look down—magic is everywhere.
Top 5 Insider Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World at Universal Orlando
- Arrive Early
Be at the gate at least 45 minutes before park opening for shorter lines and a quieter Diagon Alley experience. - Buy a Park-to-Park Ticket (Even if You Don’t Use It All)
It’s the only way to access the Hogwarts Express—ideal for multi-day visits or spontaneous magic. - Download the Spells Map & Practice Movements
Some spells are tricky—practice your wand flicks for success (especially at busier spell locations). - Ride Big Attractions Early or Late
Go straight to Gringotts or Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure first, or return just before closing for shorter wait times. - Bring a Portable Charger
You’ll take tons of photos and videos—your phone will thank you later.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Stepping inside Hogwarts Castle, we encountered talking portraits, moving staircases, and soaring across the grounds. The ride combined 4K projections with physical sets—immersion like no other
Flight of the Hippogriff
We next rode the family‑friendly Flight of the Hippogriff, looping gently past Hagrid’s hut and soaking in the whimsy of Hogsmeade
A Day to Remember
This was only Day One of our Harry Potter adventure… and we can hardly wait for Day Two. The magic has only just begun. ✨
Day & Nicole
Thanks for joining us!
For reading and visiting FemmVoyage! I’m Nicole, a proud single mom to my 12-year-old daughter, Day. Together, we’re navigating the adventures of single motherhood, work-life balance, and everything in between.We’re a dynamic duo bud also facing the ups and downs of single motherhood, and all the adventures life has to offer. From family travels and weekend getaways to crafting,home decor, gardening, cooking, and fashion, I love sharing our journey with you.
At FemmVoyage, I inspire other busy moms, women, travel lovers, foodies, and home enthusiasts with practical tips, stories, and creative ideas, personal stories, and lots of fun ideas. So Whether you’re a single mom like me, how loves decorating your home and garden, or just looking for fresh inspiration, you’re in the right place and will find something here to spark your joy. Let’s make every moment count whether we’re on a trip or decorating our backyard!
Let’s explore life together.
