Most people know The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is in Universal Orlando.

But is Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure, specifically?

Technically, yes; it is.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure (in the Universal Orlando Resort) is home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.

Here, visitors can explore Hogsmeade Village and see the iconic Hogwarts Castle.

However, the Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure is only half of the actual theme park.

But if you want the full Harry Potter World experience, you’ll need to visit both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

This is because Hogsmeade is in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley – the second half of the park – is in Universal Studios Florida.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Orlando has the Hogwarts Express – a train ride that connects the two areas.

However, you’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket to ride it.

What to Do at Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is filled with attractions and exhibits that’ll delight both hardcore fans and casual consumers.

Here are some of the must-not-be-missed sights:

Explore Hogsmeade Village

Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure looks exactly like the magical village from the books and movies.

Snow covers the rooftops, and you’ll see shops like Honeydukes, Zonko’s Joke Shop, and Ollivanders Wand Shop.

Every detail makes it feel like you’ve stepped into the wizarding world.

Ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

This thrilling dark ride is inside Hogwarts Castle.

You’ll fly alongside Harry, dodge a Hungarian Horntail dragon, and escape Dementors.

Even waiting in line is exciting because you’ll pass through plenty of iconic rooms to get to the front.

Take photos of or explore Dumbledore’s office, the Gryffindor common room, and the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom while you wait for your turn.

Experience Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

This is one of the most popular roller coasters at Universal Orlando.

You’ll speed through the Forbidden Forest, encountering magical creatures like Fluffy (Hagrid’s giant dog), Cornish Pixies, and even a Blast-Ended Skrewt.

You can ride Hagrid’s motorbike or sit in the sidecar.

Each option offers a different experience.

Try Flight of the Hippogriff

This family-friendly roller coaster is inspired by Buckbeak, the Hippogriff from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

It’s a fun ride that’s perfect for kids and guests who enjoy a milder thrill.

Visit Ollivanders Wand Shop

You can watch a wand-choosing ceremony at Ollivanders, where one lucky guest gets picked to have their wand “choose” them.

You can also buy an interactive wand that lets you cast spells around Hogsmeade.

Drink Butterbeer and Eat at The Three Broomsticks

A trip to Hogsmeade isn’t complete without trying Butterbeer.

You can get it cold, frozen, or hot.

If you’re hungry, The Three Broomsticks serves classic British meals like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and roast chicken.

Watch The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle

On select nights, Hogwarts Castle lights up with a stunning projection show.

Seasonal themes like The Dark Arts or The Magic of Christmas add a special touch.

How to Travel Between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

Is Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure?

Yes, but technically just half of it.

Once you’re done with Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, you should at least make the trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

It offers a completely new experience that’s different from Harry Potter World Hogsmeade.

You’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket to see both Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.

This lets you ride the Hogwarts Express.

Note that for fans of the franchise, Hogwarts Express is more than just a train ride — it’s a full-on attraction with some surprise visits and sightings.

Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley: On this ride, you’ll see Hagrid on his motorbike and the Forbidden Forest.
Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade: This journey features Dementors and an encounter with the Weasley twins.

Without a Park-to-Park ticket, you’ll need to walk between the two parks.

This is doable, of course, but you’ll miss out on the experience offered by the train.

How to Get Tickets for Harry Potter World

Here are the Universal Orlando ticket options for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter:

1-Day, 1-Park Ticket

This ticket lets you visit either Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure or Harry Potter World in Universal Studios Florida.

You won’t be allowed to visit both.

1-Day, 2-Park (Park-to-Park) Ticket

This ticket, as mentioned, is the Park-to-Park ticket that gives you access to both parks in one day.

It also lets you ride the Hogwarts Express both ways so you can experience both rides.

Multi-Day Tickets

These tickets are available for guests who want to do longer visits.

They let you explore both parks at your own pace.

Annual Passes

Annual passes are ideal for frequent Harry Potter World visitors and/or Florida residents.

If you find yourself visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at least once a year, these are a good investment.

You can buy tickets online at Universal Orlando or through a travel agent, who may have access to special deals.

Is a Park-to-Park Ticket Worth It?

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, a Park-to-Park ticket is the best way to experience everything.

It allows you to visit both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
You can ride the Hogwarts Express, which is a must-do for fans.
You get flexibility—if one park is too crowded, you can switch.

If you only visit Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, you’ll miss Diagon Alley, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Knockturn Alley, and more.

How Does Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure Compare to Universal Hollywood?

Is Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure the same as the one in Universal Studios Hollywood?

Not quite.

They’re similar enough save for some key differences.

Size: The Orlando version is bigger and includes Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
No Diagon Alley in Hollywood: Florida has both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, but Hollywood only has Hogsmeade.
Hogwarts Express: The train connecting the parks is only in Florida.

So if you want the full Harry Potter World experience, Universal Orlando is the best choice.

Tips for Visiting Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure

If you want to make the most of your magical escapade, here are a few top tips from frequent park goers.

Arrive early to ride Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure before the lines get long.

Buy a Park-to-Park ticket if you want to see both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Get an interactive wand so you can cast spells around the park.
Drink Butterbeer—it’s a must-try.
Stay for The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle if it’s running.

Let’s Plan Your Magical Trip to Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure

So, is Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure?

Yes, and it’s an absolute must-see — especially for fans of the franchise.

And if you want help planning a stress-free trip to Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure, give us a call!

At Team Thompson Travel, we make planning for trips and vacations easy.

We help you book the best Universal Orlando vacation packages, including:

Park-to-Park tickets so you can visit both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Hotel stays at Universal resorts for early park admission.
Personalized itineraries to maximize your time in the Wizarding World.

Is Harry Potter World in Islands of Adventure? Top Traveler Tips for Your Visit