Every September 1st, witches and wizards across the globe gather at Platform 9¾, ready to board the Hogwarts Express and begin a new school year filled with spells, secrets, and Butterbeer. For Muggles like us, it’s the perfect excuse to infuse a little magic into our travel plans.
Explore Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure
Destination: Universal Orlando Resort – Islands of Adventure
Experience: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
Step into the snow-capped village of Hogsmeade, where magic lingers in every cobblestone. This immersive land features fan-favorite experiences like:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Fly through the castle grounds with Harry, Ron, and Hermione in this thrilling ride inside Hogwarts Castle.
- Flight of the Hippogriff – A family-friendly coaster that swoops past Hagrid’s hut.
- Three Broomsticks – Feast like a Hogwarts student with hearty British fare and Butterbeer on tap.
- Hogwarts Castle – Explore the iconic castle’s corridors, classrooms, and talking portraits.
- Owl Post & Hogsmeade Shops – Pick up magical souvenirs, send enchanted mail, and stock up on wizarding essentials.
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| The Hogwarts Express in Hogsmeade |
Don’t forget to ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley—it’s a different experience each way, and a must for any aspiring witch or wizard.
Ride the Real-Life Hogwarts Express
Destination: Scotland
Experience: Jacobite Steam Train
If you've ever dreamed of gliding through the Scottish Highlands aboard the Hogwarts Express, the Jacobite Steam Train is your ticket. This scenic journey runs from Fort William to Mallaig and crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct—yes, the very one from the films. Book early, wear your house colors, and don’t forget to bring Chocolate Frogs for the ride.
Stay in a Castle Fit for a Wizard
Destination: Ireland or England
Experience: Castle Hotels
Why settle for a standard hotel when you can sleep in a centuries-old castle? Properties like Ashford Castle in Ireland or Alnwick Castle in England (which doubled as Hogwarts in the first two films) offer immersive experiences that feel straight out of the wizarding world.
Shop Like You're in Diagon Alley
Destination: Universal Orlando Resort
Experience: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
From Ollivanders wand shop to Honeydukes’ sweet treats, Universal’s Wizarding World is the closest thing to Diagon Alley this side of the Atlantic. September is a great time to visit—crowds are lighter, and the seasonal shift adds a cozy charm to Hogsmeade. Pro tip: try the frozen Butterbeer and send a postcard from the Owl Post.
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| View of the dragon at Diagon Alley |
Magical Museums & Exhibits
Destination: London
Experience: Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter
Step behind the scenes of the beloved films with a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London. September often brings special events, like Back to Hogwarts celebrations and exclusive photo ops. You’ll walk through the Great Hall, explore the Forbidden Forest, and even hop aboard the Knight Bus.
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| Some of the amazing details at the Warner Brother's Studio Tour |
Celebrate at Home
Can’t travel this September? Bring Hogwarts to you! Host a themed movie marathon with travel-inspired snacks (Pumpkin Pasties, anyone?), decorate your space like a common room, or plan your next magical vacation with Kingdom Konsultant Travel. We solemnly swear we’re up to something good.
Ready to plan your magical getaway?
Whether you're chasing dragons in Romania or sipping tea in Hogsmeade, our travel advisors are here to help you craft a journey worthy of a Hogwarts alum. Contact Kingdom Konsultant Travel today—and let the magic begin.
🧳✨ Mischief managed.
Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks. You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.
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