Hogwarts Express question

[tarq476]

I'll be at UO soon for two days. Only Islands of Adventure has early admission for both days. Does anyone know when Hogwarts Express would start running from IoA to US? Is it just at the standard park opening time, 9:00 a.m.? Any advice for getting a jump on Diagon Alley rides when there isn't early admission on that side?

An unrelated question, but some of you may know: we are staying at the Royal Pacific and will have bought FL resident annual passes. Can we pick up the pass at the hotel, or only at the front gate? Of course, we'd love to avoid lines at the front gate, if possible.

Thanks!

 

[sherlockmiles]

Hogwarts Express starts to run when US opens.

There is only 1 diagon alley ride. Either be near the front of US rope drop and head there first, or be at the front of HE line. The wait will not be too long at the start of the day.

 

[wookiebeck]

You can do the EE at IOA and enjoy two or more rides in Hogsmeade before even thinking about queuing over at HE. Then be on the first or second train to pull out. You will exit Kings Cross station and join those who are rope dropping from the front of the park. The line for Gringotts will be nice and short still.

 

[jeffbeardreams]

An unrelated question, but some of you may know: we are staying at the Royal Pacific and will have bought FL resident annual passes. Can we pick up the pass at the hotel, or only at the front gate? Of course, we'd love to avoid lines at the front gate, if possible.

Thanks!

There's a tickets and attraction desk right across from the concierge desk in the main lobby. You should be able to spot it fairly easily. And yes ... that will save you some time at the front gate area, especially if it's in the morning.