Flight of the Hippogriff
Universal Studios Hollywood · The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Overview
A gentle, family-scaled outdoor coaster that loops past Hagrid's hut and the pumpkin patch before offering a clear view toward Hogwarts castle. The layout stays low and mild throughout — no inversions, no steep drops — making it one of the few Wizarding World attractions accessible to guests who don't meet the taller height requirements elsewhere in the land. The ride itself is brief, but the theming along the route (Buckbeak's paddock included) gives it more atmosphere than its modest scale would suggest.
ParksLog Verdict
A modest ride that earns its keep by being the one coaster in the Wizarding World nearly everyone in a family can experience together. It won't be anyone's highlight of the day, but it's a smart, low-friction stop for mixed-age groups and a nice bit of scenery along the way. Skip it without regret if you're short on time and prioritizing Forbidden Journey instead.
About this experience
Family-friendly outdoor coaster circling Hagrid's hut and pumpkin patch with views of the castle.
Best For
- Families with young children who don't meet Forbidden Journey's height requirement
- Harry Potter fans wanting a low-key Wizarding World ride
- Guests looking for a quick, low-intensity coaster
Tips
- This is the easiest entry point into a coaster for younger kids in the Wizarding World — use it as their warm-up before deciding on bigger rides elsewhere.
- Wait times are usually shorter than Forbidden Journey next door, making it a good backup when that queue is long.
- Watch for Buckbeak the Hippogriff near the queue — bowing to him is a nod fans of the books and films will appreciate.
Details
History
Flight of the Hippogriff opened alongside the rest of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2016, mirroring the similarly-themed family coaster that had already been running at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando since 2010.
Fun Facts
- It's themed around Buckbeak the Hippogriff from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
- It shares its concept and general layout with the Flight of the Hippogriff coaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Florida.
- At 39 inches, it has one of the lowest height requirements of any coaster-style ride in the Wizarding World.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does Flight of the Hippogriff take?
- The experience runs about 1 minutes. Budget extra time for the queue, any pre-show, and boarding — on busy days the full process can take considerably longer.
- Is Flight of the Hippogriff good for young children?
- Yes — Flight of the Hippogriff is listed as kid-friendly on ParksLog. The experience is gentle enough for most young guests, though always consider a child's individual comfort with the ride type before queuing.
- How intense is Flight of the Hippogriff?
- ParksLog rates this as moderate intensity — some speed, movement, or simulated effects. May not suit guests with strong motion sensitivity. Use your own judgement based on personal comfort and any health advisories posted at the entrance.
- Does Flight of the Hippogriff cause motion sickness?
- Motion sickness risk is low. The motion is mild — most guests, including those with slight sensitivity, ride comfortably.
- Does Flight of the Hippogriff operate in the rain?
- Flight of the Hippogriff operates outdoors. It may be affected by weather conditions — check with the park on the day of your visit during rain or storms.
- Should I prioritize Flight of the Hippogriff at Universal Studios Hollywood?
- Flight of the Hippogriff is optional on a typical visit. It's a pleasant addition if lines are short, but most guests won't feel they missed out if they skip it.
- Does Flight of the Hippogriff have Universal Express?
- Flight of the Hippogriff is not included in Universal Express Pass. All guests join the standard queue for this attraction.
- When did Flight of the Hippogriff open?
- Flight of the Hippogriff opened at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2016.
- Does Flight of the Hippogriff have a single rider line?
- Flight of the Hippogriff does not have a single rider line. All guests join the standby queue or use Universal Express.