Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando: Ride between the Wizarding Worlds
All aboard! The Hogwarts Express at Universal Orlando isn’t just a train ride, it’s an immersive journey straight into the heart of the Wizarding World. The train connects Hogsmeade™ Station at Universal Islands of Adventure and King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida. This magical experience lets you fully explore both Harry Potter lands in one unforgettable day.
Did you know?
Riders traveling on the Hogwarts Express may encounter a Dementor during the ride just like Harry did on his journey in The Prisoner of Azkaban.
Booking guide: How to ride the Hogwarts Express
How it works:: You can’t just hop on the Hogwarts Express with any park ticket, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket to board. This is because the train travels between two separate parks: Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure.
How to book: Get a 2-day 2-park ticket or 2-day 3-park upgrade to access the train ride. You can also book a 1-day park-to-park ticket upgrade if you're short on time but still want to ride the train.
Can you reserve a seat on the train? No, you can’t. Seating is first-come, first-served, but with a Universal Express Pass, you can skip the regular queue and board faster. It’s a great idea for those who want to cover everything in the Wizarding World in a day.
Highlights: What makes the Hogwarts Express so magical?
Authentic stations
Step into real-life recreations of King’s Cross Station and Hogsmeade Station, complete with British signage, luggage trolleys, and the magical walk through Platform 9¾.
Know before you go
The Hogwarts Express operates daily during regular park hours.
From Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure: Between 9am and 10pm
Ride duration: 5-7 mins
*Note: The last departure will close slightly earlier than park closing time, especially on event nights.
King’s Cross Station: You’ll find it inside Universal Studios Florida, tucked right behind the London waterfront. Just look for the Knight Bus, and you’re in the right place.
Hogsmeade Station: Head to the very back of Islands of Adventure, just past Jurassic Park. It’s right at the entrance to Hogsmeade and not far from the towering Hogwarts Castle.
The Hogwarts Express is wheelchair friendly and welcomes both manual and electric wheelchairs.
If your mobility device doesn’t fit the train’s boarding area, you’ll need to transfer to a seat, but team members are there to help.
Each train has space for at least one party needing accessibility support.
Got an Express Pass? You can use it to hop into a faster line with a dedicated queue.
The ride includes some light effects and sounds, but they’re generally gentle and shouldn’t be overwhelming for most guests with sensory sensitivities.
A park-to-park ticket is required to ride the Hogwarts Express.
There are no seat or ride reservations or assigned cabins.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult or someone aged 14+ who meets the ride’s requirements.
Food and drinks are not permitted onboard the train.
Strollers are not allowed in the queue or cabin but can be parked in designated areas near each station.
Pro tip
Planning to ride the Hogwarts Express both ways? Start your day at Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida. Lines for the train to Hogsmeade are usually shorter in the morning.
Frequently asked questions about Hogwarts Express
Yes, you do. The Hogwarts Express has separate queues in both parks, so you’ll need to line up again to ride it back.
Since it’s fully indoors, the Hogwarts Express runs rain or shine, unless there’s an unexpected park closure.
Absolutely. The cabins are cozy and fully climate-controlled.
You can. Most guests have no issues, it’s a gentle, smooth ride with no sudden movements.
No Wi-Fi, and signal is limited in the tunnel. Just enjoy the magic while it lasts.
Yes, but the lighting can be dim. Just keep your flash off so you don’t spoil the mood for other riders.
Sometimes. Smaller groups may be paired with others, especially during busy times.
Each cabin holds around 8 guests, depending on group size.
Nope, there aren’t any restrooms onboard the Hogwarts Express itself. Since the ride takes around 5–7 mins and wait times can sometimes be long, it’s a good idea to use the restroom before you get in line.
Yep! As long as they’re small and fit on your lap or at your feet.
Yes! Trained service animals are welcome, just like in most other Universal attractions.
Unfortunately, no. You need a park-to-park ticket to board, since the Hogwarts Express physically transports you from one park to the other, there’s no way to ride it as a standalone experience.