New Details on Universal Orlando’s New Hagrid-Themed Coaster Ride

Centered around one of the most beloved characters in the Harry Potter franchise, the new Hagrid-themed roller coaster is gearing up to open at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Ahead of its June 13 debut, Universal shared more details on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Formerly Dueling Dragons, the coaster will twist and turn – and go backwards – at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. It is set in the mysterious Forbidden Forest on the grounds of Hogwarts Castle, where 1,200 trees were planted to create the dark forest.

“Besides the latest coaster technology, we’re actually creating a completely new environment,” Mike West, senior director and executive producer, at Universal Create, said at a press event. “It will create a new layer and a new vista [at the park].”

In a video preview for the attraction, Tom Felton, who played the Draco Malfoy in the eight Harry Potter films, and Art Director Alan Gilmore introduce the ride and its story arc, where guests will join Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures class and board enchanted motorbikes “specially designed to make them feel the freedom of flight.”

The two-seat coaster will have guests either ride Hagrid’s motorcycle or board the adjacent sidecar. On the journey, which has an indoor and outdoor portion, guests will encounter magical creatures, including a Centaur, a swarm of mischievous Cornish Pixies, Fluffy (the three-headed dog), and become entangled in a patch of Devil’s Snare. Universal teased that the ride will also feature a creature “that’s never been seen in the films.”

“It’s what we call our first show coaster, because it’s a totally immersive environment we’re taking our guests on, so you’re going to get the thrill of a ride but the experience of a lifetime,” West said.