A Sneak Peek into the New Harry Potter Theme Park

Harry Potter is coming to join us in the "real world" where you can now truly visit Hogwarts, among many other renowned locations in the books and movies. Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida has announced that the grand opening of this section within the amusement park will open in spring of 2010. This has thousands of fans anxiously counting the days to attend this event. Universal and Warner Bros. have been working alongside with Harry Potter author - J.K. Rowlings to create a realistic and enriched world of fantasy.

One of the areas highlights will be a high-tech attraction ride called "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey". This ride will be located at none other than Hogwarts castle (which was built to appear 700 feet high). The Forbidden Journey will sweep individuals out of reality and right into scenes and well-known areas in the movie series.

Universal guests can expect to venture into the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" through a train station replica titled for the famous Hogsmeade. This new area has been built so that you will truly feel as though you're stepping into a totally new and magical world as it was designed so nothing outside of this section can be seen.

All eateries have also been themed around the series and you can expect to find the Three Broomsticks and Honeydukes. Another highlight is the Harry Potter exclusive treats and gifts you can take home from shops such as Ollivander's wand shop and Zonko's shop full of gag items.

If you're in the mood for a thrill, this area is sure to deliver! You may remember the frightful and fantastic roller coaster titled "Dueling Dragons", which were two fast paced tracks that intertwined with "close encounters" as they sped alongside one another. This famous thrill ride has been completely redone to fit into the Harry Potter theme as well. You can now expect to approach a fierce battle called the "Dragon Challenge" which is set to immerse you into the Triwizard Tournament. The former "Flying Unicorn" is also a ride of the past which has now been replaced by "Flight of the Hippogriff" - a mystical roller coaster that will be fun for the whole family!

Fun side attractions to add an additional spark to your day is the Owl Post, where you can take a load off and relax, or send your friends and family a postcard with an official certified Hogsmeade postmark! Or if you're the sporty type you can make a pit stop to Dervish and Banges where you can pick up your very own Quidditch accessories such as a "flying" broomstick. (But don't expect to take flight as soon as you leave this gift shop - unless however you have a hidden talent of witchcraft or wizardry!)

Overall this park is sure to deliver thrills, chills, and amazing memories for families across the globe!