Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
Universal's Islands of Adventure · The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Hogsmeade™
Overview
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is housed inside Hogwarts Castle, accessed through an elaborate queue through the castle's interior — including the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Dumbledore's office, the Gryffindor common room, and the greenhouses. The KUKA robotic arm ride system moves vehicles through large-format screens and practical sets, creating the sensation of flying alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione before Dementors, the Whomping Willow, and a Quidditch sequence intervene. The high motion sickness rating is the principal guest planning consideration.
ParksLog verdict
The Hogwarts Castle queue alone — Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Dumbledore's office, the Gryffindor common room — justifies the walk-through on every visit, even if you skip the ride. Single rider is often dramatically shorter and a strong option for guests who can tolerate the high motion sickness. Harry Potter fans should treat it as unmissable. Guests with any motion sensitivity should take the rating seriously; this is among the most aggressive simulator-style experiences at Universal.
About this experience
Enter through the towering castle gates and soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry Potter™ and his friends on a thrilling adventure. Groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technology (and a little magic) creates a one-of-a-kind ride.
Best for
- Harry Potter fans
- Guests who can tolerate high motion sickness potential
- Solo riders (single rider line available)
- Theme park enthusiasts who appreciate technical achievement
Tips
- Single rider line is available and often dramatically shorter — worth using if you're comfortable riding alone.
- The high motion sickness potential is the most critical consideration; guests with any motion sensitivity should exercise real caution.
- The Hogwarts Castle queue is one of the most detailed theme park queues ever built — explore it thoroughly even on repeat visits.
Details
History
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey opened June 18, 2010, as the centerpiece of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. It was the first major dark ride to carry riders on KUKA robotic arms mounted to a moving track, a system later adapted at other parks. The Hogwarts Castle queue was developed with creative input from the Harry Potter film production team.
Closure history
- Feb 8, 2027 - Feb 19, 2027
Fun facts
- Forbidden Journey was the first major dark ride to carry riders on KUKA robotic arms mounted to a moving track — a system since adapted at other parks.
- The Hogwarts Castle queue contains film-accurate sets including the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Dumbledore's office, and the Gryffindor common room, developed with input from the Harry Potter film production team.
- The June 18, 2010 grand opening featured film stars including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Tom Felton, Bonnie Wright and the Phelps twins.