Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most magical theme park experiences on the planet. This gargantuan scenic display of epic proportions beacons you to explore the life and times of ‘the boy who lived.’ Nestled at the foot of Hogwarts Castle, you’ll find a snow-capped wizarding village bustling with enchanted shops, an inviting tavern and so much more. You can even venture through the streets of London, and enter Diagon Alley. But, that’s all on the surface. Truth is, there are just as many mystical secret hidden hacks hiding in plain sight. All you have to do is open your eyes!

Give The Ministry of Magic A Call

The next time you’re in Muggle London, slip inside the phone booth outside of King’s Cross. If you dial 62442 (MAGIC) you just may get the Ministry of Magic on the line! Now, that’s a call you won’t soon forget!

Drip, Drop, Drip

If you find yourself in Diagon Alley on a hot summer day, pay a visit to the Leaky Cauldron to cool off. No, seriously! All you have to do is stand by the Leaky Cauldron sign and it will literally leak on you!

Neville Gets A Lecture

Who doesn’t love a good Easter egg from time to time? If extra bonus content is your cup of tea, The Forbidden Journey ride at Hogwarts is the place to be. If you spend an extra moment or two near the potions classroom door, you will hear Neville Longbottom receiving a lecture on how to cast a spell properly.

Step Right Up and Cast A Spell

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the ultimate immersive experience! If you’re hoping to live out your wildest wizarding dreams, interactive wands will allow you to perform spells throughout the entire park. Grab your wand from Ollivander’s and head on off to practice your skills! You’ll quickly notice that gold plates are conveniently placed throughout the park with the spell name and wand motion for casting it. What happens next is pure magic. Oh, and in case you’re wondering… it’s not just for kids!

Get Your Hands On A Horcrux

Shopping for theme park merch is practically an attraction in itself. That is why we are happy to report that almost all of the Horcruxes are available for purchase at Wizarding World of Harry Potter, including the ring, locket, Nagini, Rowena Ravenclaw’s diadem, and even Tom Riddle’s diary… buyer beware!

The Hog’s Head Brew

The dubious Hog’s Head pub offers more than just Butterbeer! Take note of the beer tap with a hog’s head. This unique red ale, appropriately named, The Hog’s Head Brew, is made exclusively for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. So be sure to fill up a mug while in Hogsmeade!

One Hogwarts Express, Two Different Experiences

Did you know that the infamous Hogwarts Express has two different experiences, depending upon which direction you’re going? While on the train, passengers will experience a variety of events, such as a dementor invasion, familiar faces outside the window, and even a visit from the trolley which offers snacks. So, be sure to take the Hogwarts Express both from Platform 9 3/4 to Hogsmeade, and then back to the Diagon Alley part of the park.

Talk to Dre Head the Shrunken Head

When is a talking shrunken head more than a talking shrunken head? When it’s Dre Head, that’s when! That’s right, meet Stan Shunpike and Dre Head at the Knight Bus in Muggle London. He can chat, laugh, answer questions, tell jokes, and more! But, he specializes in small talk. Get it?

Jaws Tributes Lurking ‘Round Every Corner

Diagon Alley used to be home to Universal’s Jaws attraction. If you keep your eyes peeled you will find a Muggle record shop that sells the hit song “Here’s to Swimmin’ with Bow-Legged Women.” Sound familiar? It is a direct quote from the movie Jaws!

He Who Must Not Be Named

We know, we know… you should never utter the name Vol— well, you know. But, just once try to mention the name to one of the cast members in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade and see what happens.

We hope you enjoyed The Secret Hidden Hacks of Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Part 1. Be sure to stick around for The Secret Hidden Hacks of Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Part 2.