Question about access to WWOHP and express passes

[emeraldmom]

We are planning a trip at Christmas time. I know how busy it is then, we were there this past year over Christmas. Last time we were staying offsite, but this time we are onsite at the Hard Rock.

The last two times we have been they have closed access to Hogsmeade during very busy times, you had to go to another area and wait to be able to even get in to that part of the park. If they should do that again, for Hosmeade and/or Diagon Alley, can you bypass the line and get in to that part of the park with the express passes? I'm not talking about the rides, it is my understanding the express passes aren't valid on FJ or Gringotts, I'm just talking about getting in to that area of the park.

Does anybody know? Thanks!

 

[macraven]

We are planning a trip at Christmas time. I know how busy it is then, we were there this past year over Christmas. Last time we were staying offsite, but this time we are onsite at the Hard Rock.

The last two times we have been they have closed access to Hogsmeade during very busy times, you had to go to another area and wait to be able to even get in to that part of the park. If they should do that again, for Hosmeade and/or Diagon Alley, can you bypass the line and get in to that part of the park with the express passes? I'm not talking about the rides, it is my understanding the express passes aren't valid on FJ or Gringotts, I'm just talking about getting in to that area of the park.

Does anybody know? Thanks!

the express pass won't help you get into the park when it is full.

if the park is at capacity, it will be a waiting game to enter those sections.

if DA or Hogsmeade is at capacity, but the park isn't, you could go to the non potter areas.

 

[RMulieri]

Nope.If the Hogsmeade/Diagon alley areas are closed to capacity, the express passes don't override that.If they expect capacity , they will likely have the time -return tickets machines running . If not, your best bet is waiting in the lines to get in when it does re-open

 

[marklodi]

As you mentioned, you are staying onsite. Take advantage of the hour early entry and what is essentially a guaranteed entrance to either HP area. Then once inside, STAY THERE and do everything you want. After all, if you're in the area, you don't have to worry about capacity limits.

Odds are, if you go early and stay put, you'll be able to hit both areas in two days (one for each), and leave each area when you are done or it reaches capacity and is just too crushing to remain. At that point, head out and enjoy the rest of the parks while everyone else is either packed inside or hovering around the entrance. Less crowds at the remainder of the parks where you can really put your Express Passes to work.

Finally, head back later in the evening to get a glance at the areas at night. Plan to close out the day in each HP area, and you'll find the crowds will thin enough to make it even more magical.

Have a great time!

Mark

 

[mischief32]

I am also from Virginia and we will be there for Christmas also. I have prepared my family for the crowds. I hope it will be warm enough to swim since my daughter like that just a much as the parks. Only time will tell with weather though. We have gone in early December before and swam.