Before Harry made his way to Hogwarts Castle, he first went back to school shopping in Diagon Alley. It’s so fun to start your Universal trip through the Wizarding World the same way. Spend some time exploring and soaking in the magic before hopping on rides or heading to Hogsmeade.

Making your way to Diagon Alley

If you have access to Early Park Admission, take advantage of the extra hour to explore Diagon Alley. My family loves wandering the nooks and crannies, casting spells, and taking in all the details before the park opens to the public.

Once you reach London and King’s Cross Station, look for the red telephone booth. Dial M-A-G-I-C (62442) to hear the secret message of the day from the Ministry of Magic.
Take a peek at the Knight Bus. The driver may be around for photos, and Dre Head, the shrunken head, is always up for a chat. Ask him if he thinks it will be a bumpy ride.
On your way into Diagon Alley, knock on the door of 12 Grimmauld Place. Step back and watch the windows above for a surprise from Kreacher the House Elf.
Explore the shops and hidden corners. Gringotts Money Exchange is a must-see, where you can ask a goblin to explain the wizarding money system and even exchange your U.S. dollars for Gringotts bank notes.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

When you are ready, head to the lockers near Gringotts, scan your park ticket, and store your bags. Your Express Pass is valid even during Early Park Admission.

The ride is thrilling, immersive, and perfect for families:

Minimum height: 42 inches
Motion simulation, 3-D experience, and high thrill
Walk through the bank’s grand marble lobby and see goblins at work
Journey through the underground vaults alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione
Motorbike and sidecar outside the bank for a fun photo
Dragon atop Gringotts roars approximately every 20 minutes (Get your camera ready!)

Even if some family members do not ride, you can walk through the queue or use the Family Room and Child Swap option.

Ollivanders and Interactive Wands

As Early Park Admission wraps up, head to Ollivanders to see a wand choose its wizard. Most families buy an interactive wand for each child or a shared family wand. Expect to spend about $65 - $85 per wand.

Inside each wand box is a map showing locations throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade where spells can be cast. Follow the arrows and golden medallions to practice magic.
Most spells are designed for children, so taller wizards may need to lower their wand to hit the target.

Knockturn Alley

Knockturn Alley has two entrances, including one near the Leaky Cauldron and one near the restrooms.

Your wand map reveals invisible ink for hidden spell locations under black lights.
Inside, discover shrunken heads, a dancing skeleton, and nods to the books and movies.
Twist the doorknob with the all-seeing eye for a spooky surprise.

Dining in Diagon Alley

Leaky Cauldron: Traditional British food served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No reservations required
Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour: Unique flavors including Butterbeer ice cream
Fountain of Fair Fortune and The Hopping Pot: Try various Butterbeer beverages

Entertainment and Experiences

Stage Shows: Tales of Beedle the Bard and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees perform daily in Carkitt Market
Knight Bus: Take photos and chat with the driver and shrunken head
Shutterbutton’s: Create moving photographs from iconic scenes
Gringotts Money Exchange: Exchange U.S. currency and learn from a goblin

Shopping

Diagon Alley has everything you need to show off your Harry Potter fandom:

Borgin and Burkes: Costume replicas, Death Eater masks, collectibles
Madam Malkin’s: Hogwarts robes, scarves, ties, and jewelry
Ollivanders Wand Shop: Interactive wands
Quality Quidditch Supplies: Quidditch gear and apparel
Scribbulus: Writing supplies
Shutterbutton’s: Moving photographs
Sugarplum’s Sweetshop: Candies including Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans
Wands by Gregorovitch: Film replica wands
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes: Toys and magical tricks
Wiseacre’s: Hogwarts apparel and wizarding equipment
Globus Mundi: Wizarding-themed merchandise
Magical Menagerie: Plush toys

You can use your Gringotts bank notes to shop at select stores and bring home magical souvenirs.

Quick Tips

Explore early to avoid crowds
Take your time casting spells and finding hidden gems
Try the Butterbeer ice cream and classic Butterbeer beverages
Follow the map with your interactive wand to make the most of your visit

Hogwarts Express

When you are finished with Diagon Alley, Follow Harry Potter’s footsteps to King’s Cross Station for a train ride to Hogsmeade. You will need a Park-to-Park ticket to board. Look for Platform 9¾ and get a running start to pass through the brick wall. Onboard, you’ll hear familiar voices and see Dementors outside the train window. The ride lasts about five minutes and is a must-do experience.

Your Ultimate Guide to Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando