Hogwarts Castle in Florida Sun

2024 Ultimate Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Tickets, Rides, Tips and More!

Ready to take an adventurous journey to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Wizards call it home. Muggles call it the Islands of Adventure.

And us Harry Potter fans?

We just think of it as our own personal heaven.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most popular and iconic theme parks of all time.

With the films grossing over one billion dollars, the scrawny, green-eyed Chosen One has got many supporters in the Muggle world.

And if you are one of them good guys… WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

Here at ThemeParkHipster, we are totally obsessed with the ragtag bunch of teenagers that vanquished the Dark Lord.

Personally, I can recite the movies to you as they play– word-for-word (well, if I’ve had A LOT of coffee I can).

So, it is a small wonder that I know the Wizarding World like the back of my hand.

Luckily for you, I’m ready to spill the beans (magic or otherwise)! 

Read More

Front Entrance to the Three Broomsticks and Long Island Tea at Harry Potter World Universal

Three Broomsticks at Universal Orlando 2024 Guide: Menu, Reservations, and More!

Would you like to dine like a wizard at the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal?

Today, dear ThemeParkHipster, we are visiting Hogsmeade– the only wizarding settlement in Britain without any pesky muggles.

So, chug some Fire Whisky, let sparks shoot out of your wand and flaunt your new robes! In Hogsmeade (even if it is in Universal Studios Orlando), there’s no need to hide.

And when you’re tired from all the gallivanting and want a hot meal, head over to The Three Broomsticks. Madam Rosmerta will fix you right up!

Come on, let me show you around!

Read More

Chief Wiggum from the Simpsons eating a big pink donut

THE BIG PINK Simpsons Donut at Universal Studios– It’s bigger than your face!

Are you ready to EAT the BIG Pink Simpsons donut at Universal Studios?

For a true Simpson’s fan, the Big Pink is a thing of legend. It is the ambrosia of the gods and the apple of Eden.

And yes, it is indeed Homer Simpson’s favorite food item.

I’m going to dial the drama down (a little) for you non-Simpson-loving creatures. 

The Big Pink (as you can probably tell by now) is the donut that features in the much-loved Simpson franchise.

The protagonist of the series– Homer Simpson, loves them to the point of obsession. He even refuses to live in a world where donuts don’t exist.

Yes, the Big Pink is that good.

Don’t trust Homer’s taste?

You can go get yourself one at Springfield– the one that exists in the real world. 

Read More

Hogsmeade Wizarding World of Harry Potter World

A Wizard’s Guide to Ollivanders Shop at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure

Are you ready to take a secret trip with me to Ollivanders at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure?

I was browsing through The Daily Prophet while my kettle was pouring me a cuppa. And Merlin’s beard, would you believe what I found?

Ollivanders in Hogsmeade! 

Now, I knew that the Muggles actually pay to get into Diagon Alley in London (through the Portkey at Universal Studios, Florida), I also knew that Ollivanders was a huge success with the Muggles.

They love waving fake wands around while Ollivander secretly cast spells (the sly old fox).

But a whole new branch in Hogsmeade (in Universal Studios) was something I would have never predicted!

So of course, I packed up my truck (well, it packet itself), and decided to investigate both the shops.

And you, my lucky wizard/witch, are coming with me!

But hold your threstals! 

It is of utmost importance that this piece of parchment does not fall into the hands of a Muggle.

So please keep it off that thing they call the ‘Ethernet’, ‘interweb’ or whatever alright?

Alright, now grab some Floo Powder, and off to Ollivanders we go!

Read More

Universal Orlando Resort Butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade

ALL 7 Types of Butterbeer at Universal Studios: Where To Find Them and How to Make it at Home!

Finding Butterbeer at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure isn’t hard.

But, recreating it at home may be challenging for us folks who are not really into cooking or baking.

In case you’re a Muggle, Butterbeer is a drink mentioned several times in the Harry Potter books.

It is the drink of choice for many of the adolescents throughout the famous Wizarding story.

Similar to the common drinks in our society such as soda and coffee. It’s a staple concoction and a must have beverage whenever you visit Universal Studios.

Read More

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Exterior Daytime View

Sweet Secrets of Toothsome Chocolate Emporium with PHOTOS, Menu, Reviews and more!

When you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a meal or a snack at Universal Orlando Resort there are plenty of options at both of the theme parks and CityWalk, but none is more impressive than Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen. 

The table service restaurant is known for its over-the-top milkshakes along with tasty entrees and brunch!

Keep reading to find out more about the delicious restaurant. 

Read More

Universal Orlando Resort Lagoon with park map overlooking velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure

25 Amazing Islands of Adventure Tips YOU MUST Know (2024)

Do you need super easy Islands of Adventure tips for your first trip?

Prepping for a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort shouldn’t be hard, but I do know sometimes the small details that go into planning can get stressful at times.

First off, the resort has 3 theme parks with another one opening in the future, plus multiple hotels to choose from and the famous CityWalk.

I understand that with all those activities, you’ll want to know easy tips for going to Islands of Adventure like a pro!

Read More

Velocicoaster ride Entrance

5 BEST Rides at Universal Islands of Adventure You CAN’T MISS in 2024!

Upon your descent through the majestic gates of Universal, you’ll want to know what the best rides at Islands of Adventure are!

You may not have time to try out each and every ride in the park on your trip, so you’ll want to know what the must-do attractions are before you even come face-to-face with this incredible theme park.

Well look no further, I have put together the 5 best attractions at Islands of Adventure just for you! So, let’s dive right in…

Read More

Dragon Atop Gringotts Bank Diagon Alley

11 AMAZING Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hidden Secrets and Gems You Have to Know!

Before you head to the charming Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you need to know what hidden secrets you must uncover!

There is truly nothing more magical than seeing someone step into the world that they have only read about in books.

Generations have grown up with Harry Potter and his journey and Universal was able to truly bring it to life for all walks of life to enjoy.

There are so many wonderfully magical things you can find in Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Every visit has something special for you to experience and will make you go, “Wow! Was this always there?”

Today, your favorite Ravenclaw will be sharing some of the hidden gems and secrets to look out for during your trip into Harry’s magical world.

If you listen well, I will even share some tips too!

Read More

Universal Orlando Resort Hogwarts Castle the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure

5 BEST Wizarding World of Harry Potter Rides (Ranked for 2024)

Ready to conquer ALL the Harry Potter rides on your trip to Universal Orlando?

Muggle, wizard, hag, goblin or elf, you have DEFINITELY heard of the Boy Who Lived. 

And if you are a regular ThemeParkHipster like me, you have DEFINITELY heard of the Harry Potter World in Universal Studios, Orlando!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is something of a legend on this blog.

It is one of the most well-integrated lands in any theme park I have ever seen!

From the Beauxbatons dance to Ollivander’s shop to the looming Hogwarts castle, everything is straight out of the movies.

BUT, the true icing on the cake are the Harry Potter rides! 

From riding a Hippogriff to escaping Dementors on the Hogwarts Express, your adrenalin will be pumping throughout the visit.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter rides are not for the weak-hearted– at least, not the rides we explore on this blog.

I am NOT here to talk about kiddy rides or the rides designed to keep the kids occupied while parents gulp down some Fire Whiskey.

Instead, I am going to talk about rides that have you screaming, gasping, laughing and awe-struck.

So put on your invisibility clock because we are going scouting!

Read More