(Swish and Flick! /* Wands at the Ready! )
The sound of the bricks magically rearranging guides you to the secret entrance to Diagon Alley. Where do you go first?
If your answer is not Ollivander’s, you’re wrong!
Just kidding – park strategy is a whole other topic. We are here today to prepare you to challenge even your charms professor with your wand knowledge.
At Universal Orlando you can find interactive wands in many Universal Stores around the parks, City Walk, and resorts. However, the wand chooses the wizard at Ollivander’s, and the whole experience is a must for any Harry Potter fan and really quite magical even for muggles to enjoy. You can find Ollivander’s Wand Shops at both Universal Studios Florida (USF) in Diagon Alley and Islands of Adventure (IOA) in Hogsmeade. Other than some aesthetic details, the two shops are the same experience.
A queue forms outside of the shop and groups of about 20-25 guests are escorted into the shop where you are greeted by Ollivander himself. He will choose one (sometimes 2 – like siblings or a couple) witch or wizard to find the perfect wand. After interacting with objects around the room, the magic makes the wand’s wishes known.
Even if the wand chooses you, you must still pay for the wand. At a recently increased price tag of $63.00, this souvenir may put a small dent in your wallet. BUT it is not just a souvenir!
My first time in Ollivander’s, I was in awe of the great detail throughout the shop. Floor to ceiling, there are wand boxes of varying sizes and colors. An enchanted broom is trying to keep up with dust and cobwebs. The suspense is palpable as we wonder who will be chosen for the wand ceremony! Soon we are escorted into the room where the magic happens – literally – and Mr. Ollivander himself descends a set of stairs. By his expression, I can tell he is already assessing this group of new witches and wizards.
There’s a variety of both original designs and character replicas to choose from. Universal’s most recent line even gives you features and properties of the wand, not to mention the designs are gorgeous!
These wands are actually magic. Well, not really, but you CAN spend hours finding spell locations around the Wizarding World and performing the indicated spells with REAL results. Wands not only come in a sturdy and display worthy box but also come with a map that shows you where to find the spell locations. (Pro tip: Take the map to Knockturn Alley under the Blacklight to reveal some secret spell locations!)
One of my favorite things is watching the kiddos celebrate after casting a successful spell. Several of the spells result in humorous shenanigans! I channel my inner Weasley Twin when I make water spray from the fountain in Diagon Alley and watch the reaction of the unsuspecting victim! It was a bit of a learning curve to get the movements just right, but once we realized it is all in the wrist, we mastered the technique! Resident wizards and witches are typically nearby to assist as well. Do you have a little one amused by poop? There’s a spell (or two) for that!
The biggest question we get asked – Is it worth it? Short answer – It depends (but kinda, yes!). Here’s the long answer:
The experience of making magic in the Wizarding World makes interactive wands more than just a souvenir. They are part of the magic. Now, if you’re a muggle, then perhaps there are better uses for your money. On the other hand, being completely immersed in this world makes for an exceptionally memorable vacation and every time you look at that wand or watch your little witches and wizards recreate that experience at home, I don’t think you’ll regret it. (I have 5 and counting…)
Plus, Ollivander is always available for repairs. If your wand ever decides to be finicky and causes you to regurgitate slugs, simply have it repaired any time. This includes even on future trips or on hand me down wands! (Money saving tip: Keep an eye on marketplace, EBay, or even consignment shops for wands- many people don’t realize they can be repaired!)
When heading to Universal Orlando Resort, you want the most magical vacation possible. With a Smart Moms Travel Agent on your side, Universal is an epic experience for all ages. We go to the parks frequently and are always up to date on the latest news and changes. If you’re already working with a Smart Moms Travel Agent, I know you are being well taken care of. If you are not yet working with an agent, I would be honored to help you. Universal pays for my services and includes that cost in their pricing. That means I can help you for free!! Let’s get your magical vacation booked! Start by filling out this quick form here.
