Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most immersive theme park experiences ever created. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s series can wander through meticulously recreated locations like Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, sip butterbeer, and even practice their wand skills.
Among the land’s standout attractions are Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, both of which bring the magic of the books and films to life through cutting-edge technology and storytelling.
For guests looking to experience both lands in a single visit, the Hogwarts Express is a must-ride attraction. The train seamlessly connects Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida with Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure, offering a unique journey filled with surprises from the wizarding world. While many have marveled at the ride’s immersive details, one guest recently revealed a little-known feature hidden within the attraction.
A Secret Inside the Hogwarts Express
A recent visitor shared images revealing that the Hogwarts Express has a discreetly designed wheelchair-accessible compartment. This discovery highlights an often-overlooked aspect of the ride’s design, showcasing Universal’s commitment to accessibility.
“Probably the best hidden ADA wheelchair accommodation is at the Hogwarts Express,” the guest wrote. “The last compartment of all three/six train cars has a hidden door that opens up to allow a guest to roll in and remain in their wheelchair while riding. Seats on both sides fold down and allow the hidden door to be closed while traveling.”
The accompanying images show an enlarged train compartment that can be expanded when necessary to provide space for wheelchair users, a feature not immediately visible to most guests.
How the Accessible Compartment Works
Not all guests using a wheelchair are automatically directed to this expanded cabin. Instead, Universal team members determine the best seating arrangement based on individual needs.
“They’re supposed to ask ‘are you comfortable taking a few steps into the car,'” a Reddit user explained. “If you say yes, then they load the wheelchair into the back and you walk on, if you say no then they put you into this cabin.”
This thoughtful design ensures that guests experience this with ease. While the compartment remains a lesser-known feature of the attraction, its existence underscores the park’s ongoing efforts to make the magic of Harry Potter accessible to all.
Have you ever ridden in the expanded cabin on the Hogwarts Express?
