Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando – Complete Guide
The Hogwarts Express is one of the best and most unique rides at Universal Orlando. This train ride takes you between two Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter:
- Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida
- Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure
As the Hogwarts Express takes you between two parks, you need a park-to-park ticket to ride.
All ages and abilities can ride the Hogwarts Express – I’ve been on it with my baby. Babies do have to be removed from the stroller, but strollers do not need to be collapsed. Meanwhile, if you’re in a wheelchair, staff will direct you to a specialist cabin onboard the train.
The train journey lasts 8 minutes. You’ll be asked to remain seated in your cabin during this time. The train moves very slowly – in fact, you often don’t feel it moving at all. During this time, a projection will be shown on the carriage window and doors.
There are two stories told on the Hogwarts Express.
On the journey from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade, you’ll go through the countryside, heading towards Hogwarts. Meanwhile, on the journey from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley, you’ll face a Dementor as you travel back to London.
Both stories are cinematic experiences with no movement or physical encounters. However, the journey from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley can be scary for younger children.
Given that the Hogwarts Express is both a unique and functional ride, it’s very popular. As such, it’s not uncommon to see standby wait times of an hour or more.
If you have a Universal Express Pass, you can use it on the Hogwarts Express. The ride is most popular between 1pm and 4pm when people move between the parks. As such, I recommend riding before lunch or after dinner if you can.
