
Los Angeles/Hogwarts Express Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Nestled at the iconic border of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, this luxurious hotel is your perfect gateway to explore LA! Boasting a stellar 4.5 rating, it caters to both business travelers and families with top-notch amenities like a pool, fitness center, and even childcare services. Its prime location puts you just minutes away from Rodeo Drive, Sunset Strip, and easy access to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and SoFi Stadium. Celebrating a special occasion? Their wedding services and stylish bar will make it unforgettable!

This family-friendly hotel is a perfect getaway spot! Featuring a pool, tennis courts, and even a golf course and water sports equipment, there's fun for everyone. Its prime location offers easy access to the beach, and with childcare services available, parents can relax worry-free. Enjoy added conveniences like valet parking and laundry services during your stay!

This hotel is a perfect choice for both families and business travelers! Located in the heart of Los Angeles, just steps away from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, it offers unbeatable convenience. Enjoy outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center, and even a kids' play area and game room to keep the little ones entertained. With two on-site restaurants and a cozy bar, dining options are plentiful. Rooms are spacious and feature iPod docks and minibars for ultimate comfort. Whether you're here for leisure or work, this place has it all!

Looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway in Los Angeles? This hotel is your perfect choice! Enjoy the rooftop pool and outdoor terrace with stunning city views. The trendy bar serves handcrafted cocktails and delicious snacks, with live jazz performances on Mondays for a vibrant atmosphere. Its prime location is unbeatable—right across from the Beverly Center, and just minutes from Rodeo Drive, Sunset Boulevard, and other iconic spots. Whether for family trips, business stays, or romantic getaways, this hotel has it all, with pet-friendly policies and Chinese-speaking services to make your stay extra comfortable!















Everything you need to know about Hogwarts Express
Disney's Hollywood Hotel is ideal, just a short walk from the Hogwarts Express. The hotel features immersive Wizarding World décor, including themed rooms with magical details and nightly light displays as the train passes by. Guests enjoy priority access to the attraction and exclusive experiences like Wand Shops and Harry Potter-themed dining. Its central location within Disney California Adventure ensures seamless access to all magical attractions.
Take the Disneyland Resort Bus or use ride-sharing services like Uber/Lyft, which take about 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, ride the Metro Rail to Disneyland Station, then transfer to a park shuttle. The Hogwarts Express departs from King’s Cross Station (Castle of the Lost Kingdom) inside California Adventure Park. A valid park ticket is required for boarding. Plan your trip in advance via the official website to avoid peak crowds and secure entry.
Beyond riding the Hogwarts Express, try the Great Hall Feast, an immersive dinner experience with live characters and magical effects. Visit the Wand Workshop to craft your own wand, attend a Quidditch match, or explore the Forbidden Forest. The Creature Exhibition showcases lifelike models of magical beasts. All activities require separate tickets or reservations—plan ahead via the official website to ensure availability and enhance your Wizarding World adventure.
The Hogwarts Express runs hourly from approximately 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, depending on park schedule. Hours may extend during peak seasons like summer or Halloween. Check the Disney app for real-time timetables and special event updates. Due to high demand, arrive early at King’s Cross Station to secure your seat and avoid missing a departure.
Near the Hogwarts Express station, visit the Hogwarts Gift Shop for exclusive items like limited-edition wands, House scarves, wizard robes, and magical books. Don’t miss the Diagon Alley collection, featuring glow-in-the-dark wands and color-changing sorting hats. Many items are available only at the park and often release seasonal variants. Shop at the Three Broomsticks Pub or Hogwarts Shop before leaving to capture the full magical experience.
Yes, riding the Hogwarts Express requires a valid California Adventure Park ticket and boarding at the designated station. While the ride itself is included in admission, it’s a key attraction, so entry is mandatory. Opt for a Park Hopper Pass or FastPass+ to maximize convenience. Due to limited capacity, reserve your time slot in advance via the official website to avoid long queues.
Stay at Disney's Hollywood Hotel, just a short walk from the Hogwarts Express at Universal Studios Hollywood. The hotel features immersive Harry Potter-themed decor, including enchanted corridors and themed rooms. Guests enjoy exclusive access to FastPass+ for the ride, plus breakfast with wizarding characters. Evening events like the Nighttime Spectacular bring the magic to life. Convenient shuttle service connects directly to the park, making it ideal for families seeking a seamless magical adventure.
The most convenient option is Uber or Lyft, taking about 25 minutes and costing $40–$60. For public transit, take the Metro Rail to Universal City Station, then transfer to the free Universal Shuttle Bus—total travel time around 45 minutes. The Hogwarts Express is located within Universal Studios Hollywood’s Islands of Adventure, so pre-purchase tickets and download the Universal App for real-time wait times and navigation. On-site magical maps help guests plan their route efficiently and maximize their experience.
Beyond riding the Hogwarts Express, don’t miss the Hogwarts Castle Adventure Tour, where guests can participate in mock Potions Class, Flying Lessons, and a live Quidditch Match simulation. Visit Honeydukes Sweet Shop and Three Broomsticks Pub to taste Chocolate Frogs and Butterbeer. Join the Nighttime Magical Parade, guided by wizards through secret corridors, revealing hidden lore. All experiences require activation via a wand or magic card, enhancing immersion throughout your journey.
Yes! The Hogwarts Learning Center offers interactive magic workshops such as spell casting and wand-making, perfect for children. Weekly Family Magic Days feature character meetups, scavenger hunts, and kid-friendly Quidditch matches. Family rest areas, child-friendly restrooms, and stroller rentals are available. Arrive early to avoid crowds and use Express Passes for priority access to top attractions, ensuring a stress-free, magical experience for all ages.
The Hogwarts Express runs daily from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with schedules subject to change based on park hours. Check the Universal Studios App for real-time queue updates and special event extensions—such as during Halloween celebrations. Peak times (12 PM to 5 PM) see longer lines; consider using Express Passes or boarding the first train of the day for smoother access. Onboard waiting areas and magical digital displays provide entertainment and fun facts during wait periods.
The carriages emulate a 19th-century British steam locomotive, featuring antique wooden seats and lead glass windows offering views of dynamic magical landscapes. Each carriage includes a hidden projection system displaying animated scenes like Blast-Ended Skrewts, Thestrals, and glimpses of Hogwarts Castle. Subtle audio effects from concealed speakers emit whispers and footsteps, enhancing realism. The roof features a movable smokestack with steam emission effects, adding sensory immersion. Designed by a wizard-tech team, every detail reflects meticulous craftsmanship and innovation.
See what other travelers say about Hogwarts Express

Staying at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills was an absolute delight. The hotel is spotless and exudes a sophisticated, modern vibe from the moment you walk in. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk or quick transit ride to my business meetings, which made my work trip stress-free. Everything I needed was within easy reach: great restaurants, cafes, shops, and local amenities all around. What truly stood out was the staff—friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful. They went above and beyond, even remembering my favorite coffee order on my second visit! The overall experience was exceptional, and with a perfect 10/10 rating, I’d definitely return and recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Los Angeles.

Staying at Chateau Marmont feels like stepping into a timeless Hollywood dream. Every room is uniquely designed with vintage charm and artistic flair—no two are alike, which makes each visit feel fresh and special. My favorite part? The private poolside cottages, offering ultimate privacy and serenity. It's such a peaceful retreat just minutes from the buzz of downtown LA. The location is perfect for exploring the city, and the ambiance is unmatched. I've stayed here multiple times, and it never fails to impress. If you're looking for an unforgettable escape with style and soul, this is the place.

Staying at Loews Hollywood Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and tons of great spots to explore. Everywhere you go, there are restaurants, shops, and supermarkets nearby, making it super convenient for both sightseeing and daily needs. The hotel itself is spotless, with a clean and modern vibe throughout. Staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, always going the extra mile to make sure guests felt comfortable. It’s clear they care about guest experience. For anyone visiting Los Angeles, this hotel offers the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and charm. I’ll definitely be coming back.

Staying at this hotel was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—right across from a grocery store, just a short walk to a fantastic Japanese grill, and only a block away from some great shopping spots. Getting to Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Universal Studios, and Griffith Observatory is so easy—whether by car or public transit, everything is within reach. The hotel itself is stunning, with elegant design and top-notch amenities. The staff are incredibly warm and attentive, always going the extra mile to make your stay comfortable. And the on-site bar? One of the best in all of Los Angeles—perfect for a relaxing evening drink with a view. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of convenience, luxury, and hospitality. I’ll definitely be back.

The room was spotless and had a cool, modern vibe that made the stay really enjoyable. The neighborhood felt safe—no homeless people around, which was a big plus for me. I only had one day in Los Angeles before heading to Santa Monica. Unfortunately, taxi rides to the airport or Santa Monica cost $50–$70 each way, which felt way too expensive for such short trips. If I’m back, I’ll definitely look into alternative transportation options. Still, the hotel itself was excellent—great cleanliness, stylish design, and friendly staff. It’s definitely a place I’d consider staying again if I ever return to LA.

Staying at Dream Hollywood by Hyatt was an absolute highlight of my trip to Los Angeles. The location is unbeatable—right next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, so I could stroll out for photos and soak in the star power anytime. What made it even better was TAO Restaurant being just steps away; dinner there felt like a seamless part of the experience. The hotel itself blends modern design with comfort, and the staff went above and beyond to make me feel welcome. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s part of the Hollywood vibe. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Palihouse West Hollywood at Beverly Hills was an absolute delight. The design is sophisticated yet cozy, with every detail reflecting great taste and attention to craftsmanship. Though the space is compact, it feels thoughtfully laid out and incredibly well-appointed. I especially loved the evening bar—it’s a perfect spot to unwind with a drink under soft lighting and a relaxed vibe. The room itself was full of clever touches and high-quality amenities, making the stay feel both luxurious and personal. Located in a prime area, it's convenient for exploring nearby attractions, and everything felt just right. This place truly delivers on style, comfort, and charm—definitely a standout experience I’d recommend to anyone visiting LA.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles / Hollywood was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. What stood out most was how close it was to Universal Studios—just a short walk or quick transit ride away, making it super convenient for theme park visits. Being near the Hollywood Walk of Fame added to the magic; strolling down the boulevard in the evening felt like stepping into a movie scene. The hotel itself is brand new with modern decor and clean, well-maintained facilities. Everything felt fresh and thoughtfully updated. Cleanliness was excellent—no complaints there. The staff were friendly, helpful, and went the extra mile to ensure we had a great time. Whether you're here for entertainment, sightseeing, or just a comfortable base in LA, this hotel delivers on every front. Highly recommended for travelers who value convenience, quality, and a great vibe.

Stayed at Magic Castle Hotel for two nights to catch a Dodgers game and visit Universal Studios. The location was perfect—just a 5-minute walk from the nearest subway station, making everything super convenient. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, instantly putting me at ease. I especially appreciated the complimentary coffee and soft drinks available throughout the day—great for travelers on the go. While I was traveling solo, I noticed many families staying here too, so it’s clearly a great choice for all kinds of guests. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-designed with thoughtful touches. Overall, the experience exceeded my expectations. From the warm hospitality to the excellent location, this hotel is a hidden gem in Los Angeles. I’d definitely come back and recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

Staying at Palihotel Melrose felt like coming home—cozy, welcoming, and full of character. While it’s not a luxury hotel, the attention to detail and personal service more than make up for any lack of extravagance. Special thanks to Evan for his warm hospitality and helpful recommendations throughout our visit. The rooms are compact, so packing light is definitely the way to go. With no closet or dresser, you’ll need to get creative with storage, but that just adds to the intimate, lived-in vibe. It’s perfect for travelers who value charm over space. I’d absolutely stay here again—it’s a hidden gem in Los Angeles.

Our second stay at Hollywood Homes was even better than the first! We were upgraded to a much larger apartment at a similar price point, making it an incredible value. The unit was spotlessly clean, beautifully furnished, and had everything we needed for a comfortable and stress-free trip. From the cozy living area to the well-equipped kitchen, every detail was thoughtfully considered. The free parking was a huge plus, especially since we were driving around town. Being just steps away from public transit and all the local hotspots made exploring LA so convenient. Overall, this experience exceeded our expectations—great quality, great location, and excellent service. I’d absolutely recommend this place to anyone visiting Los Angeles, and I’ll definitely be booking again.

Staying at The Dixie Hollywood Hotel was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—right across from a shopping center with supermarkets, restaurants, and all the essentials you need. It’s perfect for families traveling with kids, as everything is within walking distance. The rooms feature spacious king-size beds, offering excellent comfort for a good night’s sleep. We loved the vibe, the cleanliness, and how close everything was. I’d definitely book here again on our next trip to Los Angeles—it’s an ideal choice for travelers who value convenience and comfort without compromising on quality.
Explore more amazing destinations