If you’re planning a visit to Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you may need to adjust your itinerary! One of the land’s most popular attractions, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, will be temporarily closed for a one-day refurbishment on April 9, 2025.
While this isn’t a long-term closure, it could still impact parkgoers hoping to experience this one-of-a-kind ride inside Hogwarts Castle. Let’s take a look at what this means for your visit and what you can do instead!
Why Is Forbidden Journey Closing?
Universal has not provided specifics on the nature of this short closure, but given the attraction’s complex mix of practical effects, screens, and robotic ride vehicles, regular maintenance is essential to keeping things running smoothly. The ride, which debuted in 2010, has undergone several minor refurbishments over the years to ensure the magic stays alive for guests.
The closure is currently listed as lasting only for April 9, 2025, but it’s always a good idea to check Universal’s official website in case plans change.
How This Affects Your Visit
While this is a brief refurbishment, it does mean that guests visiting that day won’t be able to step inside Hogwarts Castle to experience the thrilling adventure through the Wizarding World. The ride closure could also cause increased wait times for nearby attractions like:
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – A thrilling coaster through the Forbidden Forest that often has the longest lines in the park.
- Flight of the Hippogriff – A family-friendly coaster with great views of the castle.
- The Hogwarts Express – If you have a Park-to-Park ticket, you can hop aboard this iconic train to Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.
If you were looking forward to a walkthrough of the Hogwarts Castle queue, you may also be out of luck, as guests typically need to be in line for the attraction to experience the castle’s detailed interior.
What Else to Do in Hogsmeade
Even without Forbidden Journey, there’s plenty of magic to explore in Hogsmeade. If you need a break, consider stopping by The Three Broomsticks for some classic British fare or grabbing a frosty Butterbeer from one of the themed kiosks. Want to cast a spell? Interactive wands let you bring the land to life with hidden magical effects throughout the village.
Looking Ahead
While Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey will be closed for only a day, Universal is already looking toward the future of the Wizarding World. The new Ministry of Magic land coming to Epic Universe in 2025 promises to expand the story and bring even more immersive experiences to fans of the franchise.
Be sure to check Universal’s official website before your trip for the latest updates, and keep following us for more theme park news, tips, and dining recommendations!
It’s for only 1day. So again, you look at the news headline and it is fake news as usual, making us believe it’s closing for good.