If you’ve been to Universal Orlando, then odds are you’ve ridden the Hogwarts Express. The iconic train connects the Harry Potter area, Diagon Alley in Universal Studios, to Islands of Adventure’s Hogsmeade. It’s not just a transportation method; it’s a ride in and of itself. Look out the windows to see some of your favorite characters alongside the train path. It’s the most fun way to park-hop!
Hogwarts Express
But we have some news – the Hogwarts Express is closing next month, starting on Monday, February 9th, 2026. Here’s everything you need to know and how to get around during the closure!
The Hogwarts Express will be temporarily closed in both parks from February 9th to February 23rd. The closure is for routine maintenance to improve the ride and make sure it runs smoothly. It will reopen for guests on February 24th, 2026. The Hogwarts Express has seen many closures recently due to the complex nature of the attraction. The ride closed 3 times alone last year in May, September, and December.
If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express during the closure, you can still see a train car in Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure. You can take pictures and even talk to the train conductor! To find the train, head to “Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure”, and the train will be in the alcove behind the ride’s lockers.
Hogwarts Express
To park-hop between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure during the closure, you will have to leave the park through the main entrance and walk to the other park. The parks are close together, and it’s about a 5-minute walk from one main entrance to the other. Reminder, the Hogwarts Express will only be down from February 9th to February 23rd and reopen on February 24th. In the meantime, happy park-hopping! Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more theme park updates.
Here’s every important date at Universal for 2026!
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Will you be riding the Hogwarts Express when it reopens? Comment below!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
Oh I hope it doesn’t get delayed for some reason. We actually have tickets to go on the 24th! We picked that day of our vacation at Disney to visit Universal. Fingers crossed!