The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

On May 31, 2007, Universal Studios announced that it 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 license Harry Potter, the famous character from J.K. Rowling’s books and films, but Universal pulled off a major coup in securing a deal with Warner Bros.

Universal Studios initially said that the new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter would open in the Spring of 2010. The official opening date was pushed back to June 18, 2010.

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 covers a 20-acre site inside Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Universal has built it by re-theming part of the existing Lost Continent and utilizing adjoining unused land (a car park).

The total costs are estimated at between $230 million and $265 million in 2007 (including the new Simpsons ride).

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was expected to help Universal claw back some visitor numbers. This has proved to be the case. Especially after Universal opened the second “Harry Potter” land, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Diagon Alley, and then connected the two parks with the Hogwarts Express.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions

Universal promised a state-of-the-art attraction that brings the magic, characters, and stories of Harry Potter to life in an exciting way that guests have never experienced.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter. Visit the village of Hogsmeade, the mysterious Forbidden Forest, and parts of Hogwarts Castle and grounds.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter also includes what are described as “experiential shops and restaurants.” These shops allow guests to purchase all types of Harry Potter merchandise and sample food based on J.K. Rowling’s books and films.

Harry Potter Rides at Universal

Two original roller coasters from the Lost Continent have been re-engineered to fit into the new environment. “Dragon Challenge” (formerly Duelling Dragons) features a twin high-speed roller coaster themed around the Triwizard Tournament.

In July 2017 it was announced that Dragon Challenge would close on September 4 to make way for a brand new roller coaster

Next door is the “Flight of the Hippogriff” (formerly the Flying Unicorn). This is a family coaster where you can experience a Hippogriff training flight over the grounds of Hogwarts Castle.

The iconic new structure is, of course, Hogwarts Castle. Inside is a ride attraction called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Universal kept the details of the type of ride under wraps until the last minute, saying, “it will be 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.”

Harry Potter Shops

No theme park would be complete without merchandising, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is no exception, with a whole host of shops!

These include “Zonko’s” joke shop, where you can buy Extendable Ears, Boxing Telescopes, and Sneakoscopes. Next door is “Honeydukes,” which sells treats including Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans.
At the “Ollivanders” wand shop, you can enjoy a unique interactive experience in which the wand chooses the wizard.

“Dervish and Banges” sells magical instruments and sports equipment, including Quidditch equipment, Triwizard apparel, Spectrespecs, and Remembralls.

Finally, there is “Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods,” full of Ministry of Magic and magical creatures merchandise, Omnioculars, and control Golden Snitches.

Best Butterbeer at Universal Studios Florida

Through the magical alleyways of the Wizarding World, you will find a beverage that has captivated the taste buds of witches and wizards: Butterbeer. This concoction, initially brought to life in the pages of the Harry Potter series, is now available to experience. With various Butterbeer types, Universal has ensured Harry Potter fans can enjoy this signature beverage in several forms, from cold and fizzy to frozen and slushy, each delivering its unique flavor and texture. You might have to try more than one to find the one you like.

The most popular cold Butterbeer is often compared to cream soda, topped with a frothy layer. After drinking, you may have seen some Instagram posts with the classic butter beer mustache. The frozen version is a refreshing version that is great for the Florida heat while often described as a slushie that can give you the occasional brain freeze.

Whether you go for the classic Butterbeer, the frozen option, or explore other unique variations, Universal Studios Florida offers an immersive Butterbeer experience that adds a magical touch to any visit. It’s a must-try experience, even if it doesn’t go down well.

Wizarding World Restaurants and other attractions

At “The Three Broomsticks” and the adjoining “Hog’s Head” pub, you can sample traditional British fare and drinks, including Butterbeer and pumpkin juice.

Also in Hogsmeade village is a calm resting area called “The Owlery,” where you can see owls roosting, awaiting their next delivery. You can also get a letter stamped with a certified Hogsmeade postmark and buy official stamps from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Harry Potter Books and Films

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

The series is hit with both young and old, and Universal will continue to hope that the character will win over fans of a famous mouse not that far away.