The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is getting ready to cast a spell over Florida.
The one-of-a-kind experience, which will recreate the world the boy wizard inhabits in both the books and the popular film series, is set to open in spring 2010 at the Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Consumer Products announced details of the joint project on Tuesday, describing the attraction’s features as follows:
‘ At the entrance of Hogsmeade, billowing steam and an iconic whistle signal the arrival of the Hogwarts Express into Hogsmeade station
‘ Across the way is Zonko’s, a joke shop with a collection of tricks and jokes, including Extendable Ears, Boxing Telescopes and Sneakoscopes
‘ Honeydukes is next door and full of treats like Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every- Flavour Beans
‘ The Three Broomsticks and adjacent Hog’s Head pub will feature traditional British fare and drinks including Butterbeer and pumpkin juice
‘ Across from the Three Broomsticks is The Owlery, where owls roost and await their next delivery
‘ The Owl Post sends letters with a certified Hogsmeade postmark and sells official stamps from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
‘ Ollivanders wand shop is an incredible interactive experience where the wand chooses the wizard
‘ Completing Hogsmeade is Dervish and Banges, the magical instruments and equipment shop featuring Quidditch equipment, Triwizard apparel, Spectrespecs and Remembralls
‘ The first attraction, Dragon Challenge, features a twin high-speed roller coaster with many iconic elements from the Triwizard Tournament
‘ Next is Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster simulating a Hippogriff training flight over the grounds of Hogwarts castle
‘ Located in Hogwarts castle, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a thrilling new state-of-the-art attraction that uses entirely new technology to bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before experienced
‘ Before exiting back into Hogsmeade, Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods is full of Ministry of Magic and magical creatures merchandise, Omnioculars, and even remote control Golden Snitches
The attraction is being put together with the collaboration of Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling and will feature designs from the movie series’ production designer, Stuart Craig, and its art director, Alan Gilmore.
‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is yet another way that fans will be able to experience and enjoy Harry Potter for many years to come,’ said Diane Nelson, President of Warner Premiere, who is also responsible for overseeing the Harry Potter brand team worldwide. ‘The power of this brand speaks for itself, as the enthusiasm of our dedicated fans around the world continues to grow even stronger as we move into the future.’
