Park Pass Pro - Universal - May 2025
Park Pass Pro Tip
One of the easiest and most useful things you can toss into your park touring bag? A few gallon size Ziplock bags! These lightweight, reusable heroes are incredibly versatile and can save the day in more ways than one.
First, they’re perfect for packing your own snacks. Use them to portion out breakfast bars, candy, trail mix, or even electrolyte powder packs you can add to your water throughout the day. Having those little energy boosts ready to go will save you time and money—and help keep everyone in your group happy between meals.
Ziplocks are also a great way to protect your electronics and other essentials from unexpected rain or splashy rides. Just slip your phone, charger, or park map inside before boarding a water ride or if the skies start to turn gray. It’s a simple solution that offers great peace of mind.
And here's another bonus: they make getting through security a breeze. Keeping small items grouped in clear bags makes it faster and easier for security to inspect your belongings during bag checks—less time waiting in line means more time in the park!
They’re also handy for organizing sunscreen, lip balm, or personal items so you’re not digging through your entire bag every time you need something. In short: gallon size Ziplocks are a small item that can make a big difference on a long day in the parks!
Recommendation
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If you’re visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort, one of the best souvenirs you can invest in is an interactive wand. It’s not just a fun keepsake—it’s your key to unlocking magical moments throughout Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and now, the brand-new Ministry of Magic in Epic Universe, which is officially open! These interactive wands let you cast spells at special locations marked throughout the parks. You’ll find spell spots in:
Each wand comes with a map, showing you where to stand and how to perform the correct wand movement at each spell location. When done correctly, you’ll trigger magical effects in shop windows, fountains, hidden nooks, and more—perfect for wizards and witches of all ages. |
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One of my favorite spells is Metelojinx, located in Horizont Alley, a hidden side street off Diagon Alley. It’s a Weather-Modifying Charm that creates a small thunderstorm. Look up near the restroom entrance, where you’ll spot a floating umbrella. Cast the spell just right, and you’ll hear thunder, see lights flash, and even feel a little sprinkle of rain! These spells aren’t just for show—they’re a fun way to slow down, explore hidden corners of the parks, and interact with the world around you. From illuminating lanterns to making magical objects move, each spell adds a little bit of Hogwarts-style wonder to your day. Pro tip: Head to Ollivanders for the full wand experience. You might even be chosen by your wand in a special interactive ceremony—a memory that’s especially magical for first-time visitors. So don’t leave your wand in the bag—use it! Whether you're in Diagon Alley, strolling through Hogsmeade, or exploring the Ministry of Magic, spellcasting is a must-do experience that adds extra enchantment to your Universal adventure. |
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Special Offers
Universal Buzz
- Butter Beer Season is coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter March 1 - May 31. This includes seasonal drink, dessert and treat offerings: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/events/butterbeer-season
- Universal Fan Fest Nights coming to Universal Studios Hollywood on Select Nights April 25 - May 18th. The best way I heard this event explained is themed spaces throughout the park including Star Trek, Back to the Future, Dungeons & Dragons, One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/hhn/en/us/things-to-do/events-and-seasonal-activities/fan-fest-nights
- Second Generation of Interactive Wands are now available. These wands will give guests an enhanced wand magic experience. There will several new effects and spells in an entirely new way. With the new wands, there is quite a few options through Universal Play within the Orlando Resort App. https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/news/master-the-magic-with-second-generation-interactive-wands-in-the-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-at-universal-orlando-resort/
- Universal Epic Universe grand opening is May 22nd. All cast members have been invited to explore the new park. On Saturday, they started to allow video and pictures of the land. I have spent hours watching footage to get my clients ready for their trip. It's going to be EPIC. If you are okay with spoilers, check out these videos:
- Helios Grand Hotel is taking reservations. When staying here, you are attached to Epic Universe so going in and out of the park is a breeze.
Universal Fun Fact
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man underwent a major refurbishment in 2011 and 2012 ahead of the release of The Amazing Spider-Man. During that refurbishment, Stan Lee was added into the attraction and was given multiple cameo appearances. One of the cameos Stan Lee makes in the ride is as the ride announcer. At the very end of the ride, you can hear him telling guests to stay seated until the ride stops. This line was re-recorded just a few weeks before his death in 2018, making it his last cameo recording ever.
