In keeping with the "guide" theme of our blog, we'd thought we share some of the strategies we've learned from several visits to the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park.
The new Harry Potter park seems to have a secondary theme, outside of the Hogsmeade/Hogwart's theme of the island's creators. LINES!! Yes, the lines can get quite long for some of the attractions, especially the new Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and the Ollivanders Wand Shop show. Additionally, another underlying theme may be prices! We noticed on our last trip to the island that Universal has raised the prices of almost all Harry Potter merchandise by about 10%, across the board...sometimes more!
A few of these successful strategies may seem like elementary "magic," but are effective, nonetheless.
- There's a back door to Dervish & Banges. During a couple visits after the grand opening, I noticed that many of the people in the 2 hour (not a typo) wait for Ollivander's Wand show think you have to go through the show, including the line to buy a wand. Not true!!! While the front door to the Owl Post (where you buy wands) and Dervish & Banges were being monitored and regulated, the back door was left open and fully accessible. The back door is in the alley that is part of the Dragon Challenge exit queue, just past the Owlery.
- Use the single rider line at Forbidden Journey. Until Universal Express makes it's first appearance at the new ride, this is the speediest way to get on the Forbidden Journey ride. Be warned! You skip about 85% of the "walk" through Hogwart's Castle, though. I really enjoy the work and shows you get to experience inside Hogwart's, so I usually don't use the single rider line. If you're in a rush, though it can save you a ton of time. Also, you see all those people waiting outside the castle? They're just waiting to put bags into lockers. Leave the bag with a friend or at home and skip this part of the line, too.
- You can buy Butterbeer in Three Broomsticks. Now, the line for Three Broomsticks can get long, but the line for the Butterbeer carts can be even longer! Step inside a nicely air-conditioned building and wait for your frosty beverage there, instead. You can also get it in Hogshead Bar, but so far, you've had to go through Three Broomsticks to get into Hogshead.
- Buy your Harry Potter souvenirs before leaving for your vacation. We mention this tip all the time regarding Walt Disney World and the same holds true for the Harry Potter park. Plus, as we mentioned above, the prices continue to rise inside the park. You will spend less money and get more for your money if you take advantage of this strategy. People always spend more money in an emotionally charged environment like a theme park, especially when they have a tired, screaming kid begging for that goodie. Buy the gifts before you leave, wrap them up like a present, and give them to your children when you arrive in Orlando. They will love it! Plus, they'll be less likely to ask for stuff at the parks -- although, they'll still ask. This makes them happy and keeps you on budget. Everyone wins.
- Have a listen to Moaning Myrtle. Make sure to visit the bathroom in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter park. You'll get a nice surprise when you hear Myrtle moaning to you while "taking care of business."
Got some tips or secrets of your own? Please share them with the group in the comments!