09/02/2026
Don’t use Express Pass here. Seriously.
I know everyone is excited to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, but Hogwarts Castle is one of the few ride queues at Universal Orlando Resort where not using Express Pass can actually make the experience better.
You’re not just weaving through a line. You’re walking through the greenhouse, Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Gryffindor common room and hallways lined with moving portraits. Keep an eye out for details like the Mirror of Erised, the Sorting Hat and even the troll security office before you ever get close to a ride vehicle.
Here’s something a lot of people don’t realize: if someone in your group doesn’t want to ride Forbidden Journey, they can still experience the castle! Just ask a Team Member about exiting before boarding.
I’ve been a Harry Potter fan for years, and walking through Hogwarts never gets old. The ride is great, but don’t let it distract you from everything that comes before it.
Who agrees Hogwarts Castle is a MUST SEE?
