Hogwarts Express train ride soft opened on July 1. After seeing this on Twitter, I made my way to Kings Cross Station on the Universal Studios side on July 2; hoping that Hogwarts Express would soft open, again. Fortunately, shortly after the park opened, Universal opened Hogwarts Express for “technical rehearsals” again on the 2nd of July.
So, what did I learn during this technical rehearsal? Well, other than that this ride is as amazing as any attraction at either park, I also came away with 3 lessons that you may benefit from.
1. Hogwarts Express Show is Different in each Direction!
I was lucky enough to experience the ride on Hogwarts from Hogsmeade to London (Kings Cross Station) at the VIP event I attended on June 20th. However, my first chance to ride Hogwarts from Kings Cross to Hogsmeade came at the soft opening, yesterday.
I had seen the show from Hogsmeade to London and it was really cool! However, the show from London back to Hogsmeade is spectacular! You have more character interaction, more going on, and even a visit from a dementor!
With this in mind, be sure to ride the Hogwarts Express going both ways!
2. Unlimited Rides on Hogwarts
Although there were rumors that Universal would limit rides on the Hogwarts Express train, during the soft opening you could ride the train over and over. You did have to fully exit a station and re-enter the queue, but they were not limiting you to one trip in each direction, one trip, or any other form of ride limitations.
You are, however, limited to non-flash photography, on board the train, though (speaking of limits). No video or flash.
3. You Must Have a Park-to-Park Ticket to Ride Hogwarts
You will be asked for your park-to-park ticket before you enter either the Hogsmeade or Kings Cross stations. Your ticket will then be scanned, just like it was when you entered the park and you will have your fingerprint scanned, again, too. Be prepared by having your ticket out and ready for scanning.
Also, the Power Pass holders are currently not allowed to ride Hogwarts Express, since Universal Studios is blacked out. If either park is blacked out for the dates you visit with your Power Pass, you will not be able to ride the Hogwarts Express.
These were my top 3 lessons from experiencing the “technical rehearsals” of the new Hogwarts Express train. What lessons can you offer from your experiences, if you’ve had any?
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