If your family is following in the footsteps of Harry Potter, you’ll be exiting the Hogwarts Express train station directly across from Hogsmeade Village. For those taking advantage of Early Park Admission at Islands of Adventure, you can likely hit two of the most popular rides before the park opens to everyone:

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Using an Express Pass or the Single Rider line where available can help you maximize your morning.

Once you’ve enjoyed the rides, take some time to explore Hogsmeade Village.

Exploring Hogsmeade Village

After passing the Hogwarts Express train station, you’ll see a display train on your right. The Train Conductor is often available for photos and conversation. Ask him if the trains are running on time or what he knows about He Who Must Not Be Named.

Nearby is the entrance to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, which I consider the best ride at Universal.

Rides in Hogsmeade

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Join Hagrid as you fly deep into the Forbidden Forest on a thrilling roller coaster that plunges into the paths of some of the wizarding world’s rarest magical creatures. It’s Universal’s most highly themed, immersive coaster.

Minimum height 48 inches
Thrill ride
Express Pass and Single Rider options available
Family Room and Child Swap available

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Walk through the classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts and soar above the castle grounds alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione.

Minimum height 48 inches
Express Pass available
Motion simulation
3-D / 4-D experience
Can cause motion sickness; closing your eyes helps
You can ask to walk through the castle, even if you don’t plan to ride

Flight of the Hippogriff

This family-friendly coaster teaches guests how to approach a Hippogriff before spiraling and swooping around Hagrid’s hut and pumpkin patch.

Minimum height 36 inches
Express Pass available
Kid-friendly and quick ride
Totally skippable if you want to save time

Sweet Treats and Hidden Corners

After the rides, explore the nearby shops, including Owl Post. You can send a letter or postcard from Hogsmeade with the official Owl Postmark. Postcards and Harry Potter-themed stamps are available in the store for about $30 for a set of 10. DIY options from home work too. Don’t forget to take a photo with the nearby owl.

Inside the shop, you’ll also find a lovable character who likes to chomp down on more than homework, so keep your fingers safe.

Backtrack to the left side of the village for Honeydukes, where the chocolate frogs call your name, each bundled with a collectible wizard card. Between Honeydukes and the Three Broomsticks, you might hear house-elves washing dishes in the alleyway.

In front of Three Broomsticks, pose for a selfie with the interactive wanted poster featuring Sirius Black. Behind the restaurant, the back porch offers tables, benches, and a spectacular view of Hogwarts Castle. It’s a great place to enjoy butterbeer or pumpkin juice.

The Hog’s Head queue often starts here, and you can ask for their secret menu for a special adult beverage. Nearby restrooms feature appearances from Moaning Myrtle, and a Gringotts ATM is close by if you need muggle money.

Butterbeer barrel carts are scattered throughout the village, especially near the snowman and stage platform where you can catch various performances, including the singing frogs choir.

Casting a Spell at Ollivanders

If you missed it in Diagon Alley, you can head to Ollivanders Wand Shop. The interactive experience lets a wand choose its wizard. Wait times grow longer as the morning progresses. The lights are dim with some light and sound effects but are not scary.

Take time to find and try your hand at all of the wand spots all over Hogsmeade.

Entertainment and Special Experiences

Hogsmeade is full of magical entertainment:

Frog Choir: Hogwarts students sing a cappella with frogs on stage between Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle.
Triwizard Spirit Rally: Cheer on Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students near Flight of the Hippogriff.
Special event light shows on Hogwarts Castle during select times of year.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey queue: Even if not riding, the storytelling is worth exploring.

Food in Hogsmeade

Three Broomsticks: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner available. Mobile ordering is an option. Traditional British fare includes English breakfast, Fish & Chips, and Beef Pasties.
Hog’s Head: Enjoy Butterbeer, pumpkin juice, or a selection of beers and spirits.
Honeydukes: Chocolate frogs and trolley-cart treats.
Butterbeer is available throughout the village.

Shopping in Hogsmeade

Dervish and Banges: Apparel, Quidditch equipment, Spectrespecs
Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods: Toys, chess sets, house crest banners
Honeydukes: Sweets, chocolate frogs
Ollivanders Wand Shop: Replica and interactive wands
Owl Post & Owlery: Mail letters to your favorite muggles

Hogsmeade offers a little something for every wizard, witch, and muggle. From thrilling rides to magical shopping, butterbeer, and interactive experiences, a day here is magical for guests of all ages.

Your Ultimate Guide to Hogsmeade in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter