I'm not a 'Harry Potter' fan, but I've visited the Wizarding World over 100 times. Here are 11 things I always do and 2 I skip.

Carly CaramannaJan 16, 2024, 11:07 IST

I visit the Wizarding World at Universal Orlando often. Carly Caramanna

I'm a theme-park journalist who's been visiting Universal Orlando since it opened in 1990.
As an annual passholder, I visit often and love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The Hogsmeade section of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened at Universal Orlando in 2010. Since then, it's grown to include two lands across Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

The world comes to life via recreations of iconic places and scenes from the "Harry Potter" franchise, including Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade, and Diagon Alley.

Admittedly, I'm not a "Harry Potter" superfan, but as a theme-park regular, I appreciate the level of detailing that went into creating the Wizarding World. From a fire-breathing dragon to the snow-capped rooftops of Hogsmeade, it's by far my favorite theme-park land.

Here are my favorite things to do, see, and eat in the Wizarding World — and what I usually skip.

Knockturn Alley is one of my favorite hidden areas.

If you know where to turn, you can end up in Knockturn Alley. Photo Spirit/Shutterstock

I always ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

The "Harry Potter" rides typically have longer waits.Carly Caramanna

I also love Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

There are so many fun details around the attractions. Carly Caramanna

I always get a Wizarding World-exclusive beer.

There are some exclusive food and drink options in the land. Carly Caramanna

The land's snacks are some of my favorite in the park.

I always go to the Wizarding World when I'm hungry. Carly Caramanna

If I want a full meal, I always get fish and chips.

The Leaky Cauldron has a few different pub entrées. Carly Caramanna

The full English breakfast served in the mornings is also a great choice.

If you're at Universal in the morning, head to Diagon Alley for breakfast. Carly Caramanna

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour is home to my favorite dessert in the park.

There are really unique flavors at the Wizarding World ice-cream shop. Carly Caramanna

Wandering the many shops is a must.

You can find all sorts of souvenirs in the Wizarding World. Carly Caramanna

The shows are really unique.

You can catch some incredible "Harry Potter"-themed live entertainment. Carly Caramanna

Riding the Hogwarts Express is a must.

You can take the famous train between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Carly Caramanna

On the other hand, I always skip the Butterbeer.

I think Butterbeer is a little overrated. Carly Caramanna

I've never felt the need to buy the interactive wands.

I'm not a huge "Harry Potter" fan, so I'm not sold by some of the pricey merch. Carly Caramanna

I escaped the crowds of tourists in Rome by taking a cheap day trip to a dreamy lakeside town just an hour away

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