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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

On May 31, 2007, Universal Studios made the announcement that they had signed a deal with Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. to bring Harry Potter to Islands of Adventure at the Universal Orlando Resort.

At one time it was thought that Disney might licence Harry Potter, the famous character from the J.K. Rowling's books and films but Universal have pulled off a major coup in securing a deal with Warner Bros.

Rather than just a Harry Potter themed ride, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is billed as a theme park within a theme park and will cover a 20 acre site inside Universal's Islands of Adventure. Universal plan to build it by re-theming part of the existing Lost Continent and utilising adjoining unused land (currently an employee car park).

One wonders if the Flying Unicorn or Dueling Dragons will be converted into a Quidditch based ride?

Total costs are put at between $230 million to $265 million (including the new Simpsons ride) and work will start in 2007.

The new development is due to open in late 2009/early 2010 (summer 2010 latest) and will certainly help Universal claw back some of their lost visitor numbers of late.

Planned attractions

Universal have not yet released details of planned rides and attractions but are promising "a state-of-the-art attraction that will bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in an exciting way that guests have never before experienced".

Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter and visit the village of Hogsmeade, the mysterious Forbidden Forest and parts of Hogwarts Castle and grounds.

The new Wizarding World of Harry Potter will also include what are described as "experiential shops and restaurants" which will allow guests to purchase all manner of Harry Potter merchandise and sample food based on the J.K. Rowling's books and films.

Harry Potter Books and Films

Harry Potter books have sold over 325 million copies in over 200 territories around the world and the films have grossed a staggering $3.5 billion at the box office.

Harry Potter is a hit with both young and old and Universal will be hoping that the Harry Potter character will win over fans of a famous mouse not that far away.

The official Universal Harry Potter website can be found here.