Last Summer was the grand opening of Diagon Alley from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, Orlando. There was a lot of buzz about the new addition to the Universal theme park and rightfully so. It took years and much attention to detail to turn part of Universal Orlando’s theme park into something right out of the pages of the Harry Potter series. When fans visit the attraction they feel as if they have been transported right to London. All amazing theme parks need a train and Universal now has an amazing train; The Hogwarts Express Train! The train connects Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, allowing guests with park-to-park admission to enjoy a real journey aboard the iconic locomotive.
The Hogwarts Express experience combines powerful storytelling, live special effects, lifelike animation and state-of-the-art technology to take riders on the journey of a lifetime. Guests can board the train at Universal Studios or at Islands of Adventure. Once seated in the cabin, guests can look out their windows as an incredibly authentic and magical adventure unfolds before them. They’ll see Hagrid alongside the train on his flying motorbike, Buckbeak the Hippogriff swoop over the black lake, the Weasley twins on brooms and up to their usual antics, the Knight Bus swerving through London traffic – and other special surprises.
Universal’s Creative team worked closely with Warner Bros., Stuart Craig, and the production team from the Harry Potter films. The goal was to create a truly unique experience in Universal Studios and the cherry on top of the ne Diagon Alley is the sensational Hogwarts Express experience that the entire family can enjoy. Everything about the train is authentic – from the paint and the materials used to build it and all the way down to the whistle. For Harry Potter fans and those that want to just enjoy the ride the Hogwarts Express train is truly a magical ride.
Written by Amy Eisenrieth: As an active mom and travel agent, Amy knows memories are what matter most in life. Whether your plans include Wizardry or Pixie Dust she has the magic to make your vacation memories last a lifetime! Contact Amy about saving an extra 5% off your vacation with a coupon tip. Book your next vacation with Amy at 803-281-0330 or by email.