There is a hidden world of fun at Universal’s theme parks! Did you know about the super unique trees or the secret place where you can convert your money? Or what about the feisty fountain, or the magical entrance? Great for curious children or those who love a little behind-the-scenes trivia knowledge, locating these secrets makes your family’s park visit even more magical, and creates a fun seek-and-find game on its own! Below we highlight a few Fun facts and Hidden Secrets at Universal Orlando for kids. How many can you find?
The Hidden World of Harry Potter
Not to the surprise of Harry Potter fans – there are MANY hidden elements and special magical tricks to the Wizarding World land. So many that there are too many to list – here are a few of our favorites:
Cast a Spell
Purchase a wand at Ollivander’s and use it to unlock interactive spells throughout the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Simply wave your wand while reciting the proper spell, and watch the magic unfold!! For example, you can make it rain, cause objects to fly, and more. Just look for the golden plaques embedded in the ground. or use the included map that comes with the wand. There are a total of 16 spells to discover across the two parks. (At both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure Park).
Disappear at Platform 9 ¾
True to the Harry Potter Lore – boarding the Hogwarts Express from the Kings Cross Station at Universal Studios requires walking through a magic brick wall. The boarding procedure requires you to board on a train platform numbered 9 and 10. Where is 9 ¾? Directly between them! As you walk through, you will not be able to see the trick; however, others behind you will be able to take in the special effect; and watch you magically disappear into a wall of bricks! (Located at Universal Orlando).
Gringotts Money Exchange
Stop by, ask the goblin a question, and trade your U.S. currency for Gringotts bank notes in $10 or $20 denominations. The banknotes can be used for purchases within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! (Located at Universal Orlando).
Who ya Going to Call?
The Ministry of Magic, of course! Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley phone booth just outside the Kings Cross Station and dial 62442 (MAGIC) to be connected! (Located at Universal Orlando).
Burning Up
“Hot” Tip: The dragon in Diagon Alley breathes fire. Every ten minutes the dragon lets out a rumble, followed by a gigantic fireball. A sight not to miss! The fire spitball is so large that you will feel the warmth through the park. (Located at Universal Orlando).
Mail Takes Flight
Want to send postcards to loved ones back home? Mail them from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter post office, the Owl Post. This proper shop sells a variety of writing materials, including stationery, quills, seals, ink, and an array of owl-related gifts. Here you can also mail letters with a special Hogsmeade postmark to family and friends. (At both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure Park).
Getting Twisted
While walking through Seuss Landing, you might notice that something is up with the crooked palm trees. Many are twisted and bent, unnaturally! These trees are survivors of Hurricane Andrew and were chosen for their funky shape. A perfect compliment for Seuss landing! (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Picture Perfect
Dr. Seuss, the man who started it all is part of a hidden cameo! While walking in Seuss Landing on Mulberry Street, pay attention to the police motorcycle photo opportunity. There are three men on the wall in the background. The person on the left is the rhyme master himself. (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Minions Snack Time
Minions fans know that their favorite food is bananas. Universal knows this too! You can find actual banana trees next to the attraction’s entrance in case the little guys need a snack. (Located at Universal Orlando).
Still Phoning Home
The lone alien is the lone ride! Universal Orlando opened in 1990 with a slew of groundbreaking rides. Time and technology have changed many – and most rides have evolved over the 30+ years since the park opened. ET’s Adventure is the last OG still standing and is the only original ride that still remains at the park. (Located at Universal Orlando).
Smells like Home
The fan-favorite ride is loved for many reasons, but one specific reason is the waiting area! While waiting to board the flying bike contraption, fans will need to walk through a forest. Surrounded by giant redwoods, a light fog, and lush greenery – this forest is pure magic and looks straight from the ET movie set. But the detail isn’t just in the visuals – the entire area has an unmistakable smell of fresh pine (just like a forest!). The scent has been charming ride-goers for centuries, and it has become so popular that it has even been made into a candle. (Located at Universal Orlando).
Fountain Fun
This is not an ordinary fountain! The Mystic Fountain, located in the Bazaar, has a mischievous spirit. When awakened, he may speak! Wake him up, and you’ll have a fun conversation – the fountain is feisty! During our visit, we told him some jokes, asked him some questions, and had several laughs. Warning – you may get splashed! (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Me Ship, You Olive
Play Time! Me Ship, The Olive is a three-story play area located inside a colorful, cartoon-style ship designed after Popeye’s boat. Here you can steer the wheel, climb over cargo nets and take a plunge down a tall slide. Locate a tiny piano on the second level – If you play the keys in the correct order, it will play a musical surprise! Even better – stand on the third deck to shoot water cannons at unsuspecting riders below. (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Making Headlines
When exploring Super Hero Island, keep your eyes peeled for Newspaper Boxes with newspaper boxes complete with the Daily Bugle (the headlines are about Spider-Man!) and the interactive telephone stands. Pick up the phone to hear about the current crime-fighting situation across the land. (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Signature Please!
Marvel artist Adam Kubert is the mastermind behind the massive superhero characters across universal and was asked not to sign his master creations. But Adam had a rebellious streak and buried his signature deep within the illustrations. A fun hide and seek of a signature kind – can your little ones find ADAM? (Located at Islands of Adventure).
Splash Time
Feeling hot in the park and looking for a way to cool off? Head for the Splash Zone of the River Adventure ride, in Jurassic Park! The standing area is adjacent to the ride’s finale plunge. You WILL get soaked if you stand there to watch. (Located at Islands of Adventure).
The above isn’t a complete list – there are *so many* hidden tricks and easter eggs around Univeral Orlando and Islands of Adventure. Ready to visit? Read our ticketing tips and helpful hints on Universal with Kids HERE!
