Ok students, today we’re talking about one of my absolute favorite topics, visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Orlando. Whether it’s Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure, toggling between the two parks via the Hogwarts Express is perhaps my all-time favorite activity. And if you’re like me, dressing up for the experience is the best way to truly enjoy it. It shows that you’re a true Harry Potter fan.
Disney World can keep their mouse ears, give me an interactive wand and Hufflepuff gear and I’m a happy girl. Whether you’re dressing up as one of your favorite characters or just wearing a simple Harry Potter shirt, there are no wrong ways to go about this. Scratch that. You could technically go about it the wrong way. There is a dress code, but it’s reasonable. More on that later.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
To see a list of current area deals, discounts and offers!
Can you dress up at Harry Potter World?
Absolutely! Dressing up at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is more than encouraged. Most Harry Potter fans will likely already have something on brand hanging around in their closets. However, if not, there are several souvenirs and apparel items you can buy in the theme park. Of course, if you wait until then, you will be paying theme park prices.
What do most people wear to Harry Potter world?
Honestly, most people wear standard theme park apparel. Specifically, shorts, T-shirts and good shoes. Still, it’s not uncommon to dress up to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Usually, it’s just a simple outfit because let’s face it, Orlando is humid and you still want to be comfortable while you’re walking around the theme park all day.
What do you need for Harry Potter world?
First of all, you need to be comfortable. No matter what you are planning to wear, make sure good, comfortable shoes and something with breathable material are part of your plan. The wait times can be lengthy and you want to be comfortable while waiting around in long lines to ride the Harry Potter rides. If it’s your first time visiting the park, I recommend purchasing an interactive wand. It’s an extra cost for the interactive version, but it’s not significantly that much extra money for what you’re getting. And if it’s your second time visiting the park, bring your wand with you.
As a pro tip, I enjoy having a themed lanyard because it’s the perfect accessory. They’re great for Express Passes. I’ve used the same Harry Potter-themed lanyard for multiple visits now, so it was well worth my initial investment. I also like to carry a small backpack for the essentials. The gift shop will have drawstring bags that are Harry Potter-themed as well. There are several themed shops in the area to explore.
Can you wear a Harry Potter robe at Universal Studios?
Can you? Sure. They also sell them at the park. Should you? Not if it’s 90 degrees outside, but you do you. Harry Potter robes are available in the gift shop and look very similar to how they appear in the Harry Potter films. If you’re waiting until you get to the park to buy your outfit, here are some of the main categories you’ll see in the gift store when you arrive at the Harry Potter area of the park in Universal Studios.
4. Hogwarts shirts and tanks
This is the safe option for someone who enjoys wearing a themed T-shirt but does not know his or her house. It’s also a strong option if you’re buying a gift for someone else. Generic Hogwarts apparel is a match for just about any witch or wizard. Plus, the option pictured here is sleeveless so bonus points for comfort.
3. Character shirts
Whether you’re a proud supporter of freeing house elves or finding wanted witches and wizards, there are plenty of character tees and shirts throughout the gift shops. If you’re searching for a “wanted” shirt, visit Knockturn Alley. It’s a great place to shop for dark magic items.
2. Quidditch tees and house shirts
These are my favorite category of shirts. You can show your true fandom by selecting a shirt that matches your house. I also love this option because it’s easy to match with your group without needing to wear the same shirt. It’s a win-win.
1. Hogwarts robes
You can wear Hogwarts robes or Hogwarts uniforms around the park as well. This option is for the truly dedicated witches and wizards as I’d say this is the least practical. But these school uniforms do look very legit. Whatever you decide to wear, be sure you take your time to explore the shops in the Diagon Alley area when you visit Harry Potter World. You’ll see treats from the movie like Bertie Bott’s every-flavour beans and chocolate frogs. Honestly, though, I tried one of the frogs and the chocolate was only so-so.
On the Universal Studios side, you have places like Quality Quidditch Supplies, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop, Magical Menagerie, Borgin and Burkes, Wands by Gregorovitch and Ollivanders Wand Shop.
On the Islands of Adventure side, you have Honeydukes, Dervish and Banges, the Owl Post and the other Olivanders. When visiting Olivanders, you may notice a separate line in one of the entrances. This is for the show, which I do recommend. But if you want to only look at wands, you can use a different entrance. The shops and the shop windows are so well done. Plus, browsing is also a cool way to catch some air conditioning in the summer months. While exploring the area on foot, be sure to stop by Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlor for butterbeer ice cream. I think it’s one of the best things to eat in the park.
Can you wear a dress to Universal Studios? Is there a dress code?
Yes, you can wear a dress to Universal. However, there are a few guidelines in place when it comes to dressing up and wearing costumes. Don’t try anything crazy. You can’t bring or wear anything that could be considered a hazard to other guests. You also can’t bring live animals with you, so leave your owls and rats at home. Veils, long trains or anything over 28 inches wide and 80 inches tall are not permitted. Costumes must meet the metal detection regulations. Hand-crafted wands must be rounded on either end and “appropriate in nature”. You can read the current policy here.
Have you been to Universal Orlando Resort? Did you dress up? Let us know in the comments below.