One of the most memorable scenes in “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” is when Hagrid brings in a Hippogriff to his Care of Magical Creatures class and hoists a reluctant Harry Potter onto its back. As Harry soars over the Forbidden Forest, he’s faced his fear and ends up enjoying the experience of a lifetime. He looks down at the world from his perch on the back of a majestic, magical creature. The wind blows in his face, the music swells, Hogwarts castle looms before him… Yeah, that’s exactly what Flight of the Hippogriff in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is like.
This family-friendly rollercoaster is severely underrated and lots of fun — and I’m not just saying that because I used to be a ride operator for it. I’ve seen children and adults conquer their fear of rollercoasters here. I’ve seen grandparents and their grandchildren riding this over and over, attempting to beat the re-ride record (about 73 times here in the Hollywood theme park). I’ve also seen couples simply hopping onboard to enjoy the breathtaking, Hippogriff’s-eye view of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Whether this is your first time approaching a Hippogriff, or your 74th, let me tell you everything you need to know about Flight of the Hippogriff in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood.
The Story
Hippogriffs are creatures with the body (and tail) of a horse, and the front legs, head, and wings of an eagle. You must always bow to them to show respect, as they are proud creatures and easily offended. I’ve heard things can get nasty if you so much as make a wrong move — you definitely don’t want to disrespect a Hippogriff! But don’t worry, Hagrid is there along the way to help guide you on how to successfully encounter a Hippogriff before you take flight for yourself!
The Queue
Two giant stone plinths mark the entrance to this ride. They also mark the beginning of the path along the edge of the Forbidden Forest to lead you towards Hagrid’s hut. As you make your way through the queue, you’ll be able to hear all the different kinds of creatures living in the trees, some of which you might remember from previous Care of Magical Creatures classes, like Cornish Pixies. But beware—the forest can be a dangerous place. Stick to the path!
As you wait in the queue, be on the lookout for:
· The patch of giant pumpkins growing behind the fence, guarded by a scarecrow in a familiar robe.
· Hagrid’s motorbike parked discreetly amidst the foliage.
· Hagrid’s hut and the sounds of Fang, his giant boarhound.
Make sure you also keep an eye out for Hagrid’s green cans of Flesh-Eating Slug Repellent as there are several hidden throughout the queue and on the platform. How many of these cans can you find?
The Ride
Now that you’ve made it onto the platform, it is time to board your wicker Hippogriff. Once you’re seated, be sure to look up. Hagrid has stored his empty boxes, cages, traps, ropes, lanterns, and other tools necessary for the care of magical creatures right above your head.
As your wicker train takes off, you’ll come face-to-face with a real-life Hippogriff in its nest. Simply bow your head and get ready to fly!
About a minute in length, and no faster than 30mph, this rollercoaster is perfect for all children who meet the height requirement and any guests who want to conquer their fear of rollercoasters. It’s also the highest viewpoint in the entire theme park (so far), making this the perfect place to see everything including stunning sunsets, a stunning view of Hogwarts castle, and the rest of your family waving at you down below.
Ride Details
Some important information you should know before boarding:
- Height requirements: 39” to ride with an adult, 48” to ride alone.
- Child switch available upon request.
- Large bags and backpacks can be stored beneath your seat. Smaller, loose items can be placed in the small pouch provided.
- Universal Express is available.
- A test seat is available at the entrance of the ride, for your comfort and safety.
- The use of cell phones, cameras, and selfie sticks is strictly prohibited.
Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
After successfully encountering a Hippogriff, you might want to learn more about magical creatures. Luckily, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood is full of them. Hop over to Hogwarts castle and ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey to face a fire-breathing dragon. Head over to Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods to peruse Hippogriffs, Phoenixes, Boarhounds, Pygmy Puffs, and more. Or visit the Owl Post for some stationery and a messenger owl. There’s nothing like sending a letter by owl, I always say.
Don’t forget to explore the rest of the land as well! One of my favorite things to do in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is watch the visiting students of Beauxbatons and Durmstrang put on a live performance. And don’t forget to enjoy the tasty food and drink at the Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head pub. Oh, and after you’ve finished sipping on your Butterbeer, be sure to check out Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream counter inside Honeydukes for another Butterbeer — a Butterbeer soft-serve ice cream, that is.
How many times have you ridden Flight of the Hippogriff, and what keeps you coming back? Let us know in the comments below!
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