Concerts
Hogsmeade™, Hogwarts™ Castle, Forbidden Journey™ & Flight of the Hippogriff™
Last Updated: August 26, 2026
Step beyond the boundaries of reality and into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Studios Hollywood. Located in the Upper Lot, the immersive land recreates the village of Hogsmeade™ with its snow-capped rooftops, shops, restaurants, Hogwarts™ Castle, and attractions inspired by the Harry Potter stories. Visitors can explore the village, experience Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, soar aboard Flight of the Hippogriff™, enjoy Butterbeer™, shop for Wizarding World merchandise, and discover interactive wand experiences throughout Hogsmeade™.
Join Hagrid™ for a family-friendly flight aboard Flight of the Hippogriff™. The outdoor roller coaster winds around the grounds near Hagrid's hut, with quick turns, climbs, tilts, and drops that provide an exciting introduction to the Wizarding World. The attraction has a minimum height requirement of 39 inches (99 cm); children between 39 and 48 inches must be accompanied by a supervising companion. Because this is a genuine roller coaster with sudden movements, guests should review Universal's current rider requirements before boarding.
Enter Hogwarts™ Castle and follow the footsteps of Harry Potter™ and his friends on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™. The experience takes guests through detailed Hogwarts environments before launching into a thrilling adventure above and around the castle grounds. Along the way, you'll encounter familiar characters, creatures, locations, and moments inspired by the Harry Potter films. The attraction combines physical sets, projection effects, motion, and storytelling to create an immersive journey through the wizarding world. The minimum height requirement is 48 inches (122 cm).
The heart of the land is Hogsmeade™, the magical village recognizable from the Harry Potter films. Wander along its cobblestone streets, admire the snow-covered rooftops, browse wizarding shops, and look for details inspired by the stories. The village provides access to both major attractions as well as dining, shopping, entertainment, and interactive experiences. With Hogwarts™ Castle rising above the village, Hogsmeade offers one of Universal Studios Hollywood's most immersive environments.
Magic isn't limited to the attractions. Throughout Hogsmeade™, guests with compatible interactive wands can discover designated locations where wand movements trigger magical effects. The experience encourages visitors to explore the village and interact with details hidden throughout the land. Ollivanders™ also provides an opportunity to browse and purchase Wizarding World wands and other magical merchandise.
Step inside the rustic Three Broomsticks™ in Hogsmeade™ for a meal surrounded by the atmosphere of a traditional wizarding tavern. The restaurant serves a selection of British-inspired and theme-park fare, including dishes such as the Great Feast, Fish & Chips, Shepherd's Pie, and other hearty meals. Butterbeer™ is also available, making the Three Broomsticks a popular stop for visitors wanting to sample one of the signature drinks of the Wizarding World.
Connected to the Three Broomsticks™, Hog's Head™ provides a more intimate pub setting within Hogsmeade™. Guests can find Butterbeer™, Pumpkin Juice™, and a selection of beverages available at the location. The distinctive interior, including the famous mounted hog's head, helps complete the atmosphere of the wizarding village.
Visit Ollivanders™ in Hogsmeade™ to explore the world of wizarding wands. Guests can browse a selection of wands and other Harry Potter merchandise, including interactive wands designed for use at designated locations throughout the land. The Wizarding World also features other themed shops where visitors can find apparel, collectibles, gifts, toys, and souvenirs.
At Owl Post™, guests can browse wizarding stationery, gifts, souvenirs, and owl-themed merchandise. The shop also offers a particularly memorable Wizarding World experience: visitors can drop letters into the post box and have them sent with an authentic Hogsmeade™ postmark. Owl Post remains one of the distinctive shopping experiences within the land.
When this seasonal nighttime presentation is scheduled, Hogwarts™ Castle becomes the backdrop for a spectacular projection and lighting show viewed from Hogsmeade™. The presentation uses music, lighting, imagery, and projection effects to celebrate the spirit of the Hogwarts houses and the Harry Potter films. Because this is seasonal entertainment rather than a continuously operating attraction, show dates and times vary. Check the official Universal Studios Hollywood entertainment schedule before planning your visit around the presentation.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ also receives special seasonal entertainment and offerings throughout the year. Holiday programming can include festive decorations and the Christmas celebration in Hogsmeade™, while other special events may introduce limited-time entertainment, food, merchandise, or interactive experiences. Universal's programming changes periodically, so seasonal experiences should be checked against the current park calendar rather than assumed to operate year-round.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ is more than a collection of rides. From the moment you enter Hogsmeade™, the architecture, music, shops, restaurants, characters, food, and interactive experiences are designed to create the feeling of stepping into the Harry Potter universe. Whether you're visiting for the attractions, searching for the perfect wand, enjoying Butterbeer™, or simply exploring the village and Hogwarts Castle, the land offers something for both dedicated Harry Potter fans and first-time visitors.
What attractions are in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood?
The two major attractions are Flight of the Hippogriff™ and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™. Universal's current rider guide lists both attractions as operating experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood.
How tall do you have to be to ride Flight of the Hippogriff™?
Guests must be at least 39 inches (99 cm) tall. Children between 39 and 48 inches (99–122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
How tall do you have to be to ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™?
Guests must be at least 48 inches (122 cm) tall.
Is Hogwarts Castle a ride?
Hogwarts Castle is the landmark and home of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™. Guests enter the castle as part of the attraction queue and experience.
Is the Hogwarts Express at Universal Studios Hollywood?
No. Universal Studios Hollywood's Wizarding World is based around Hogsmeade™, Hogwarts Castle, and its attractions. The Hogwarts Express does not operate as a transportation attraction between themed lands at the Hollywood park.
Is The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle available every night?
No. The nighttime castle presentation is seasonal/scheduled entertainment and should not be described as a daily year-round attraction. Check Universal Studios Hollywood's current entertainment calendar for operating dates and showtimes.
Does Universal Studios Hollywood have interactive wands?
Yes. Interactive wand experiences are available at designated locations throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, allowing guests to trigger magical effects as they explore Hogsmeade™.