6 Important Tips for Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood

So, you’re planning your Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood visit.

But you’re not sure how to make the most of it.

There’s nothing quite like stepping into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood for the first time.

Spoiler alert: it’s INCREDIBLE. From the snow-covered rooftops to the delectable cups of Butterbeer, it’s truly marvellous.

However, it can also be a little overwhelming. But don’t worry. It doesn’t need to be!

With these 7 tips I learned from my own experience at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios California, you can simplify and enjoy your experience.

This post is all about the top 7 important tips for visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood

Is Harry Potter still at Universal Studios Hollywood?

A frequently asked question online about Harry Potter at Universal is: ‘Why is Universal closing Harry Potter?’.

The short answer: Harry Potter is not leaving Universal Studios Hollywood.

Although it appears Universal and Warner Bros. haven’t come to an agreement for a Harry Potter UK presence at Universal Studios Great Britain, the Harry Potter presence in the existing parks is not currently changing.

Now we’ve cleared that up, let’s dive into the top 7 tips and tricks you should know for Harry Potter Universal Studios Ca.

1) Don’t Expect the Universal Studios Hollywood version to Be the Same as Harry Potter Universal Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter may be similar to Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando. But don’t let the same aesthetic and theming fool you.

If you’ve been to the Wizarding World at Universal Orlando or you’ve scrolled through endless social media comparisons, there are big differences you’ll notice right away.

Knowing what to expect can save you some major disappointment.

So, let’s unpack this common question: What is the difference between Harry Potter Universal Orlando and Hollywood?

Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood VS Orlando

The Size and Scope: Hollywood Is Smaller, But Still Worth It

One question you’ve probably wondered or heard before is: “Isn’t it just the same as Orlando?”

Not even close. Orlando’s version stretches across two entire theme parks, with both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley—plus an actual train, the Hogwarts Express, connecting them.

And now there’s even a third Harry Potter land (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic) at Universal Epic Universe, the brand new Universal theme park, officially opening on May 22nd, 2025).

In Hollywood, the magic fits into one sma;; section of Universal Studios and sticks to Hogsmeade. There’s no Diagon Alley, no Gringotts coaster, and the entire layout feels more compact.

Fewer attractions: You won’t find the same number of rides or shops. Orlando is, frankly, massive.
Less walking: For families or people who hate trekking between lands, this is a bonus.
The “best of” approach: Hollywood packs the best bits of Hogsmeade into a smaller space. This is essentially a condensed version of Hogsmeade in Orlando.

Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood Rides and Experiences: What’s Missing, What’s Not & What’s Better

If rides are a big part of your day, pay attention. Hollywood’s Wizarding World offers:

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Flight of the Hippogriff

Orlando delivers those plus:

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (Hogsmeade – Universal Islands of Adventure)
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts (Diagon Alley – Universal Studios Florida)
Harry Potter and the Battle of the Ministry (Ministry of Magic – Universal Epic Universe)

So, there’s less Harry Potter Universal Studios rides in California, but the quality of the existing rides are superior to Orlando’s.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a little more intense with some unique scenes.

Flight of the Hippogriff is essentially the same here, but it doesn’t feel quite as old (which is fitting considering Orlando’s version was previously Flying Unicorn, which opened on June 29th, 2000).

So, what else is Universal Studios Hollywood missing?

You can wave to the dragon on top of Gringotts Bank in Florida, but in Hollywood, you don’t get that big-movie moment.
No Hogwarts Express Ride: Forget about the magical train ride between parks. The Hollywood experience is all on foot, as there is only one Harry Potter land here.

No Diagon Alley: You won’t walk through the bricks to that secret London street. All shopping and snacks are in Hogsmeade.
No Ministry of Magic: You won’t get to witness the trial of Dolores Umbridge here, or walk through Wizarding Paris.

What to Keep in Mind

Universal Studios Hollywood may be on a much smaller scale, but that doesn’t make it skippable.

I visited Orlando’s version several times before my first visit to Universal Studios Hollywood last year, and I still fell for California’s version!

2) Consider Early Access to Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood offers Early Access for $20-$30 + tax, allowing guests to go to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD without the colossal crowds.

What does this have to do with Harry Potter?

More than you might think.

I paid for Early Access in December 2024, and was surprised to see that the two Harry Potter attractions opened during this time.

And both rides – INCLUDING Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – were walk ons! (Unsurprisingly, as almost everyone else was at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD).

The underrated best part: getting to see Hogsmeade with NO ONE around. If you want to take photos or just enjoy the peace, Early Access can provide that!

(If you have an interactive wand, perfect time to try out some spells!).

Of course, this is subject to change and Harry Potter attractions may not *always* be open during early entry. But even if it’s not, guests with Early Access can still be the first in line for Harry Potter attractions.

This is especially helpful if you’re visiting at peak times and/or haven’t bought an Express Pass.

Although Early Access is essentially an expensive hour at a theme park, it can definitely make sense.

Side note: We got to ride Mario Bowser’s Challenge within 15 minutes (so certainly was worth it for this ride).

How Early Should You Arrive?

If you’re wanting to maximize time, you can arrive around 30-45 minutes before Early Access.

If you’re not *as* worried about being front in line for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, you can leave a little less time, but ultimately it depends on your comfort level.

3) Go to Ollivanders (even if you don’t need or want a wand)

Like many Potterheads, I bought my interactive wand at The Wizarding World in Orlando.

But surprisingly, I found Ollivanders to be better at Universal Studios Hollywood.

With clearer displays (so you don’t have to open a hundred boxes to find the wand you want), the shopping experience would be a lot easier.

Harry Potter Universal World — Low quality photo, high quality experience 😄

And if like me, you don’t need a wand (or another wand), the great displays make it super easy to be nosey!

They also have a wand pairing show at Universal Studios California.

4) Prioritise Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (as long as you don’t suffer from motion sickness)

If you’re mapping out your day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood, make sure Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is at the top of your ride list.

This is the ride that takes you to Hogwarts, straight into the story with its mix of real props, screens, and a little technical wizardry.

But, and this is a big one, don’t rush in if you’re sensitive to motion sickness—the ride is notorious for its unexpected twists and jolts. So sadly, you may want to consider sitting this one out.

5) Don’t Skip the Nighttime Show (But Don’t Expect It To Be Like Disney)

I visited both Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland for the first time in December 2024.

The quality of Disneyland’s nighttime shows were consistently high (which was unsurprising to me after visiting Disney World and Disneyland for years).

It’s easy to forget that there is a Harry Potter nighttime show at Universal Studios California too!

It quite simply is known as The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle (with The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle showing during the festive season).

Despite being a primarily projection show, with very few fireworks, it was a decent show.

And at just 5-7 minutes each show, it doesn’t take up quite as much time.

Best Tips for Seeing It Right

The secret to enjoying the nighttime spectacle is all about timing and finding the best view. Waiting until the last possible hour can save you from elbow-to-elbow crowds, but front-row spots fill fast right before the first show. Here’s a quick list of what’s worked every time for me:

Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the scheduled start to claim a prime viewing area in front of the castle.
Ask a team member for that day’s schedule as times can shift with park hours or events. Most shows are grouped together in a short window after dusk, with a few performances back-to-back.
If you want to avoid the thickest crowds, sometimes the second or third showing is less packed.
You may want to bring a light jacket or sweater—even LA nights can cool off fast as you hang around for the show.

You can also see these shows at Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando (as the castles are slightly different, it is fun to watch this at both Universal resorts!).

6) Butterbeer is Essential!

Okay, not really “mandatory” but it is HIGHLY recommended!

You can’t talk about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood without mentioning butterbeer.

What Makes Butterbeer So Special?

Butterbeer at Universal Studios Hollywood is essentially a specialty drink. But it feels like way more than that!

So, what actually is it? Butterbeer is a non-alcoholic, butterscotch and shortbread flavored soda topped with a thick, creamy foam.

You’ll see butterbeer everywhere in Hogsmeade: outside stands, inside Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head.

There are four types of the Butterbeer drink:

Frozen Butterbeer
Cold Butterbeer
Dairy-Free Cold Butterbeer
Hot Butterbeer

You can also find Butterbeer treats, such as ice cream, fudge and potted cream.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood

How many Harry Potter rides are there at Universal Studios Hollywood?

As discussed above, there are two Harry Potter rides at Universal Studios Hollywood (including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff).

But hopefully, we’ll see future expansions at The Wizarding World, though nothing has been confirmed by Universal.

Is there a Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood roller coaster?

Sadly, no.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts are Wizarding World coasters that can be found at Universal Studios Orlando.

Is Harry Potter Disney or Universal?

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter can be found at Universal, not Disney.

If you’re interested in how Disney almost had the theme park rights to Harry Potter, check out this post.

What happened to Fast and Furious: Supercharged?

Fast and Furious: Supercharged was part of The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood from June 2015 to March 2025.

It was essentially just a screen-based segment of the ride, themed to – you guessed it – Fast and Furious.

But don’t worry, this IP isn’t leaving Universal Studios California for good.

In 2026, a new Fast and Furious roller coaster – Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will open, becoming the first outdoor, high speed rollercoaster at this park!

Ta Ta For Now

Planning a trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t always as simple as showing up and having a magical time.

The right tips can save you from disappointments, wasted time, or mediocre meals and, above all, turn a good visit into a memorable one.

Have you picked up a tip I missed or found a can’t-miss moment in the park? Drop your advice—or your burning questions—down in the comments 🙂

This post was all about the top 7 important tips for visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood.