Universal Orlando’s Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey—the ride that lets fans live out their Hogwarts dreams—is going DARK for a one-day closure, and we’ve got the details!
What’s Going On?!
If you were planning to hop on your enchanted bench and soar through Hogwarts on April 9, 2025, we’ve got some bad news—Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey will be CLOSED for maintenance. Universal quietly updated its website to reflect the upcoming closure, and while it’s only one day, that’s still enough to put a wrench in plenty of travel plans.
For a ride that’s been operating for nearly 15 years, this isn’t the first time Forbidden Journey has gone down for touch-ups, but it’s a reminder that even the most beloved attractions need some TLC. Universal hasn’t spilled the details on what’s being worked on, but given the ride’s massive moving sets, robotic arm tech, and intense screen effects, it’s no surprise it requires regular upkeep.
Will This Affect Your Trip?
For ONE day only, the Forbidden Journey will be completely off-limits. That means no soaring past the Whomping Willow, dodging Dementors, or escaping the Hungarian Horntail. If this was a must-do on your list, you’ll need to adjust your plans.
But don’t panic! Hogsmeade is still packed with magical experiences:
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – Arguably the BEST ride at Universal right now, this high-speed coaster takes you on an unforgettable trip through the Forbidden Forest.
- Flight of the Hippogriff – A quick, fun coaster with views of Hagrid’s hut.
- The Three Broomsticks – Drown your sorrows in some Butterbeer and a plate of warm British comfort food.
- Ollivanders – If you can’t ride, at least you can grab a wand and cast some spells!
What’s Next for the Wizarding World?
While Forbidden Journey is only down for a day, Universal is HARD at work expanding its Harry Potter empire. The next big thing? An entirely new Wizarding World land at Epic Universe, set to open on May 22, 2025, featuring the Ministry of Magic from both Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts.
For now, this one-day closure isn’t expected to bring any major changes to Forbidden Journey—but you never know. Could Universal be secretly testing updates for the future? We’ll be keeping an eye on it.
Stay tuned for more theme park updates, and let us know—will this ride closure mess up YOUR Universal plans?
