For months we’ve been sharing rumors about Wizarding World Orlando’s expansion. New constructions permits have appeared which further suggest that Universal intends on building a working Hogwarts Express.
First, let’s catch you up: In December Universal announced they were closing Jaws at Universal Studios. Rumors stated that the classic boat ride was shutting down to make way for a Diagon Alley expansion, which would be connected to Hogsmeade via a working Hogwarts Express. Behind the scenes, Universal has been marking a path for the train to travel. We also saw the planned layout of the expansion.
Now new permits filed by Universal on June 1 call for the construction of three new elements: North Station, South Station, and Connector. Presumably North Station would be Hogwarts Express’ platform in Universal Studios, while South Station would be at the existing Wizarding World in Islands of Adventure. See the permits below, thanks to Park Rumors:
The project is groundbreaking in that this Hogwarts Express will take you between two of Universal’s parks, meaning you’ll have to have a ticket for both.
Universal has only confirmed that they were working on a Wizarding World expansion – they have not elaborated any further. We think they’re keeping it under wraps for as long as possible so as to not affect potential ticket sales before its grand opening. If they were to announce it today, families may want to hold off on their trip until the expansion opens.