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The newest of the Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, Epic Universe features 5 distinct lands… including its own Wizarding World! In this guide, you’ll learn what to expect from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, including the rides, dining and more.
Ministry of Magic
The Epic Universe Wizarding World is centered around Paris in the 1920s (think Fantastic Beasts). You’ll walk under the Phoenix Arch and find yourself in Place Cachée, the part of Paris in the ’20s that catered to wizards and witches. Enjoy the fun of an immersive wizarding land – but with a 1920s Parisian twist! The creative team at Universal has worked tirelessly to make sure the details fit the time period and location as well as what a wizard or witch would experience.
But if your favorite parts of the franchise were the Harry Potter movies, don’t worry. Thanks to the Paris Métro-Floo station, you’ll be able to travel to 1990s London. And that leads you to the premier ride in the Wizarding World: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry!
Wizarding World Attractions
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is a motion simulator thrill ride featuring the beloved characters Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley and, of course, Harry Potter.
This exciting ride involves one of the scariest villains from the Harry Potter universe. No, not He Who Must Not Be Named… we’re talking about Dolores Umbridge!
The setting is soon after the Battle of Hogwarts, when Lord Voldemort’s followers are being brought to justice at the Ministry of Magic. Specifically, it’s the day of Umbridge’s trial. But Umbridge finds a way to break free (with the help of some Death Eaters, of course) and tries to escape.
It’s your job to capture Umbridge and thwart her plans, with the help of Harry, Hermione, Ron and Higgledy. And before you flip through your books to figure out who Higgledy is, she’s actually a new character – the former house-elf of Umbridge.
In addition to the exhilarating ride, during both the ride and the queue you’ll be able to experience actually being inside the Ministry of Magic. And getting to feel like you’re inside the movies has always been one of my favorite things about the Universal parks.
The thrill ride has a height requirement of 40” (102 cm).
Le Cirque Arcanus
Le Cirque Arcanus is the other attraction you’ll fine in the Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic.
Ringmaster Skender has stolen Newt Scamander’s suitcase, which just happens to be full of fantastic beasts from all over the world. You see, the cruel and greedy Skender wants to return Le Cirque Arcanus to its previous glory. But the show’s protagonist is actually squib Gwenlyn, his assistant, who will need to save the creatures from Skender.
This child friendly show is an immersive experience that includes puppets, live performers and special effects. Please note that while there is no age or height requirement, the show does include theatrical lighting effects, sudden and intense sound effects, and performers in close proximity to the audience.
Where to Eat
Café L’air De La Sirène
This quick service restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That includes French baked goods, plats du jour, sandwiches and desserts. Drinks available at Café L’air De La Sirène include Butterbeer (aka Bièraubuerre), French wines, beer, cocktails and more. (For alcoholic beverages, guests must be at least 21 years of age and show photo ID.)
Dine inside and take in the stunning theming, including carved marble, art nouveau mosaics, and design elements featuring period interpretations of wizards and witches. Alternatively, you can enjoy the full Parisian street café experience by choosing one of the two outdoor seating areas.
More Things to Do
Character Interactions
Keep an eye out for wizards, witches and magical creatures on the streets, in shop windows and more. And listen out when stopping by a storefront – you might overhear some wizarding gossip in French!
Magical Interactions
Marvel as inanimate objects appear to come to life. Talk to portraits who actually respond with personalized replies. And don’t forget your wand!
Shopping
Speaking of wands, you can get a unique French wand at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magiques. Artisan wandmaker Cosme Acajor has designed elegant wands for sale. And there are British wand imports available, too. Be sure to check out the chandelier, which was created with over eight hundred crystal wands and adorned with brass Pixies.
Planning an Epic Universe Trip
You can find out more about the other parts of the theme park in our Epic Universe guide.
And if you’re planning a Universal Orlando vacation, we highly recommend using this site to book your Universal trip. In particular, it’s a great way to save money on your tickets.