As an almost lifelong fan of the Harry Potter series and J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World, visiting Universal Studios’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando and experiencing the parks many Potter-themed attractions was undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable and deeply satisfying experiences of my entire life.
It goes without saying that all of Universal’s Wizarding World attractions offer a uniquely magical experience for fans, but some rides are unquestionably better than others. For my latest post on The Blog That Must Not Be Named, I’ve decided to re-examine my recent trip to Universal Studios Orlando and rank every Harry Potter/Wizarding World ride from worst to best. Unfortunately, my journey to Universal Studios took place before the opening of Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, meaning I was unable to include the ride on this ranking.
Check out the list below
4. The Flight Of The Hippogriff
About The Ride – “Enter the Care of Magical Creatures grounds and pass by Hagrid’s hut, where you’ll hear Fang barking. As you make your way onto the ride, Hagrid gives instructions on the proper way to approach a Hippogriff. A Hippogriff is a magical creature that has the front legs, wings, and head of a giant eagle and the body, hind legs, and tail of a horse. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a family-friendly roller coaster that spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch, and then swoops past Hagrid’s hut.”
My Review – While The Flight Of The Hippogriff doesn’t offer the same experience as some of the larger rides on this list, the family-friendly roller coaster, which is perfectly located across from Hogwarts Castle, is a wildly enjoyable and surprisingly fast ride for the entire family. The Flight Of The Hippogriff is also great if you’re looking for a better view of Hogwarts Castle.
Ride Rating – B+
3. The Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
About The Ride – “As you wind your way through the urban outskirts of London into the British countryside, keep watch outside your window. You never know who—or what—you might see flying, swooping, or lurking outside the train before alighting at Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park, located next door to Universal Studios Florida.”
My Review – Giving fans the opportunity to step onto Platform 9 3/4 and board the iconic Hogwarts Express, this incredibly authentic and wonderfully exciting ride makes it feel like you’re really travelling to Hogwarts with Harry, Ron and Hermione.
Ride Rating – A
2. Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey
About The Ride – “Enter through the towering castle gates and make your way down the familiar passageways and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Visit iconic locations such as Dumbledore’s office, the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, the Gryffindor common room, the Room of Requirement, and more. Then get ready to soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry Potter and his friends on an unforgettably thrilling adventure, coming face-to-face with an array of magical creatures.”
My Review – Letting guests soar above Hogwarts Castle and come dangerously close to Dementors, Dragons and more, Harry Potter And The Forbidden Journey is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable and utterly breathtaking rides Universal Studios has to offer. If the ride itself isn’t something you’re interested in, you’ll undoubtedly love the build-up, which lets you explore the halls of Hogwarts Castle and see some of the stunning locations in real life.
Ride Rating – A+
1. Harry Potter And The Escape From Gringotts
About The Ride – “Enter Gringotts bank beneath the massive fire-breathing dragon at the far end of Diagon Alley. Inside, walk through the bank’s grand marble lobby and see goblins hard at work. Then, get ready to take a journey through cavernous passageways that lead deep underground as you climb aboard this mind-blowing, multi-dimensional thrill ride. You’ll face the bank’s stringent security measures while navigating perilous subterranean vaults. Along the way, you’ll encounter Harry, Ron, and Hermione. But you’ll have to evade the wrath of malicious villains Voldemort and Bellatrix, as well as trolls and other creatures that stand between you and a safe return to Diagon Alley.”
My Review – Giving guests the chance to enter Gringotts Bank and explore the various passageways, Harry Potter And The Escape From Gringotts is completely enhanced the magical and unbelievably detailed build-up. With that said, however, the ride itself is the true highlight, taking riders on a thrilling adventure beneath the bank, and bringing them into contact with heroes like Harry Potter and villains such as Voldemort and Bellatrix Lestrange.
Ride Rating – A+
Do you have a favourite Harry Potter ride at Universal Studios Orlando? Have you had a chance to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure? Let me know in the comments section below and if you enjoyed this post, follow us on Twitter and Instagram. You can also enter your email address and subscribe to The Blog That Must Not Be Named. I have massive plans for this blog, and I wouldn’t want a fellow Potterhead to miss out!
