Fans planning a magical trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort might find a familiar sight looking a bit different. The iconic Hogwarts Castle, which dominates the Hogsmeade section of Islands of Adventure, is currently undergoing a major refurbishment.

Recent images show the castle almost completely covered in scaffolding and protective tarps. This work is focused on general upkeep and enhancements for the popular attraction, which houses the "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" ride. While details regarding the specific scope of the refurbishment are not fully public, it's a standard process for such a prominent and well-loved landmark.

It is important to note that this refurbishment at the theme park is separate from the ongoing production of the HBO Harry Potter TV series, which began filming for its first season in the summer of 2025. However, any development within the broader Wizarding World is often of interest to fans of the franchise. Visitors to Universal Orlando in the coming months should be aware of the castle's temporary appearance. The refurbishment is projected to wrap up and the castle unveiled later in 2026.