The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando is a fun place to visit if you’re a Harry Potter fan — and even if you don’t know much about the boy wizard!

But if you have never been, you might have some questions about the Wizarding World. We’re here to answer all the questions that you are too embarrassed to ask about the theme park.
Before we get started, Emma made a video with a bunch of secrets from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and you can watch it right here.
Now on to our list!
1. What is Butterbeer?

Butterbeer is the must-have drink in this area of the park! You can stop by either Three Broomsticks, the Hog’s Head inn, or other spots for the iconic beverage. It comes in three different versions: regular, hot, and frozen, and each is non-alcoholic. This drink has flavors of shortbread and butterscotch that makes it absolutely delicious!
2. Can I Do Spells Without a Wand?

Throughout the Wizarding World, there are different spots where you can cast spells to make magic happen. The reason you’ll want to pick up an interactive wand immediately is because of the whole “interactive” aspect of these special wands. You see, after your wand “chooses you” (and after you pay $63.00 in muggle money for it), you’ll receive it in a box and also receive a double-sided map of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. However, you do need a wand purchased from Universal to make these spells work.
3. Can I go to Universal while staying at Disney hotel?

You absolutely can visit Universal Orlando while staying at a Disney World hotel. You will need a separate ticket to Universal Orlando. The theme parks are about 10 miles apart, but they are not owned by the same company and are not affiliated. And it may be trickier than you think it is, which leads us to our next question…
4. Is there a bus from Disney World to Universal?

Well, yes and no. Disney World transportation will not take you to Universal Orlando, and vice versa. There are public transit buses that can get you there — but it requires you to go out of the way and transfer routes, and could ultimately take an hour or two. Your other (and the best) options are to drive your own vehicle or rental car, or to take a rideshare.
5. What are Bank Notes?

You can exchange your muggle money for Gringotts bank notes and use them anywhere in Universal — like a gift card. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself into the Wizarding World.
6. What if I want to walk through the castle without riding Forbidden Journey?

Whether you get motion sick or might not be able to fit on the ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, you are still able to walk through the Hogwarts castle. There is an exit door by the ride start and the queue goes through the entire castle, so it’s worth the wait to see some really cool things like the talking paintings and more.
7. Where Can I Find Soda in Wizarding World?

You actually cannot. As a part of the experience, instead of muggle sodas, you’ll find water, butterbeer, and other alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages you can purchase like Pumpkin Juice. You will find sodas in other sections of Universal’s theme parks, but not in the Harry Potter lands.
8. Can I Ride the Hogwarts Express Without a Park Hopper?

This is a form of transportation between the two theme parks and therefore you will actually need a 2-park ticket to ride the attraction. You cannot ride it and just stay on without exiting into the new park. They will scan your park ticket before entering the queue for the attraction.

For more tips and information on Universal Orlando, be sure to follow AllEars.net.
You Can Do EVERYTHING in Harry Potter World in One Day — Here’s How
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What questions do you have about Harry Potter World? Let us know.
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