For many fans, the moment of stepping onto Platform 9¾ is the highlight of a trip to Universal Orlando Resort. Guests visiting in early November, though, will want to make a small adjustment to their plans. The Hogwarts Express is scheduled to take a brief break.
According to the official Universal Orlando Resort website, the train will be offline for a single day. “The Hogwarts Express™ will be temporarily closed on November 4th, 2026,” the listing reads. “The attraction plans to reopen to Guests on November 5th, 2026.”
For most visitors, this is a minor bump rather than a trip-changer. Anyone holding a park-to-park ticket on November 4 will simply walk between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure that day. That route takes longer than the train, but it is manageable. Guests with flexible itineraries may prefer to save their park-hopping day for November 5 or later. That way, they can enjoy the full experience of the ride: views of the Hogwarts grounds through the compartment windows, plus a chilling encounter with dementors.
Fans planning further ahead should also note a longer closure early next year. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Islands of Adventure is set to go dark from February 8, 2027, through February 19, 2027. Guests traveling in mid-February may want to check that schedule before booking.
Fortunately, there is plenty of wizarding magic to go around. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter first opened with Hogwarts and Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure. It later expanded to Universal Studios with Diagon Alley and King’s Cross Station. In May 2025, Universal Epic Universe added the Ministry of Magic, where guests can help Harry and his friends in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.
Epic Universe also introduced guests to new lands like How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. The park has helped make the resort an even stronger draw for families who divide their Central Florida time between Universal and Walt Disney World Resort. Together, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure still welcome millions of guests every year.
The parent company, Universal Destinations and Experiences, is having a remarkable stretch beyond Orlando, too. Universal Kids Resort opened in Frisco, Texas, earlier this year. Progress also continues on the proposed Universal park in the United Kingdom, planned for the Bedford area of England.
As with any scheduled maintenance, dates can change. Before heading to the parks, check the Universal Orlando Resort website or app for the most current attraction information.
Will the Hogwarts Express closure affect your plans? Share your favorite part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the comments below.
