Will Epic Universe have Harry Potter?

It's fitting that Epic Universe, which will be Universal's first new U.S. park in over 25 years once it opens, will feature the Wizarding World, as a strong case can be made that the Harry Potter franchise saved Universal. It's no secret that Universal was struggling in the early-to-mid 2000s.



Yes, Universal Epic Universe, which opened in Orlando in May 2025, features a massive dedicated land called The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. This land is the third major Harry Potter expansion in Orlando and serves as a centerpiece of the new park. Unlike the existing lands (Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley), the Ministry of Magic land blends two different eras of the franchise: 1920s Wizarding Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the original Harry Potter series. The headliner attraction is a state-of-the-art ride set inside the Ministry, utilizing advanced lift-and-track technology to simulate a high-stakes adventure. This expansion cements Universal's "Potter" presence as a multi-park experience, requiring fans to visit three different theme parks to see every corner of the Wizarding World in 2026.

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Fans might be disappointed after Universal Orlando Resort closes a beloved attraction. Vacations for friends and family can take a lot of planning, and well not everything always goes as planned.

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Best Attractions at Universal Harry Potter Right off the bat, Islands of Adventure has an advantage because it has 4 rides instead of just 2. Plus, while I'd say the experience is better coming from Diagon Alley, you can ride The Hogwarts Express on either side.

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In conclusion, Universal Studios and Disney are their own separate companies and are not affiliated with one another. They both have their own unique experiences to offer travelers. While both are family-friendly theme parks with thrilling rides, they each cater to different audiences.

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The big beast left the park in 2012 to make room for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™.

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Harry Potter's story is set in a magical, largely fictional Britain, but the film series used many real locations as evocative backdrops. Other settings, like Diagon Alley, exist only at Leavesden Film Studios (20 miles north of London).

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No, they don't. Disney did try to acquire the rights to Harry Potter but they refused to give creative control over to JK Rowling. Warner Bros.

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If you're a thrill seeker, consider Hosgmeade. If you'd prefer to walk, eat and shop, head to Diagon Alley. In the end, both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade are worth a visit — and with a ticket that allows you to hop between parks, a quick ride on the Hogwarts Express can ensure you experience both Harry Potter lands.

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Incident. In July 1990, a 39-year-old man fell into the water while riding after a boat railing allegedly broke. According to his lawyer, guests applauded as he was pulled back into the boat, having assumed the incident was part of the ride.

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If you're more interested in large rides like roller coasters, Universal is going to be your best bet. The same is true if you're a big fan of Harry Potter. If you don't mind some of the more family-friendly rides or you have little ones to bring along, Disney may be a better option.

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studios Hollywood is great for a concise getaway, but ultimately, nothing beats Universal Orlando when it comes to the full magical experience. Those looking to enjoy the best of all the flavor, fun, and attractions will want to head to Orlando to find it.

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It really doesn't matter which one you start at, honestly. I tend to feel like most people head to IOA first thing in the morning, because it is a straight shot from the parking garage. I would maybe just hop around both parks on both days, and play it by the crowds. There are great attractions at both parks.

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