The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (And Bonus!)

The World
Article from Orlando Sentinel

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort J. K. Rowling's best-selling books about arguably the world's most famous wizard come to life in this much-anticipated new attraction at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure park. Slated to open this spring, the 20-acre section is almost a theme park unto itself, with multiple themed attractions, shops and a restaurant.Among the bewitching places where visitors can step into a scene from the Harry Potter books and films is Ollivander's wand shop. A live actor (the Wandkeeper) and special effects will enable visitors to experience the scene in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone with a wand choosing them. The Wandkeeper will prompt visitors to give the wand a wave, and a series of magical mishaps will occur until the right fit is found.Other magical happenings at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter include a Howler in the Owl Post shop, yhe Monster Book of Monsters in Dervish and Banges that will snarl and growl at anyone who gets close, and the Hog's Head, which puffs his jowls at those who visit the Hog's Head pub.Visitors will be able to sip butter beer and pumpkin juice at the Three Broomsticks, buy extendable ears and other items at Zonko's and enjoy such film locations as Hogsmeade, where billowing steam and a whistle signal the arrival of the Hogwarts Express into Hogsmeade station, Other magical locations include the Owlery, where owls roost and await their next delivery.Not-to-be-missed attractions include the Dragon Challenge, featuring a twin high-speed roller coaster with iconic elements from the Triwizard Tournament; the Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster simulating a Hippogriff training flight over the grounds of Hogwarts castle; and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey in Hogwarts Castle itself. The latter is a thrilling attraction that uses new technology to bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life. Before visitors exit 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. This replaces the Lost Continent.



The Bonus
In the new land in Busch Gardens the whole Seasame Street gang comes together in the Seaseme Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens! As you may already know Cookie Monster is one of the best things ever. He's my favorite muppet thing. Now he has his own attraction! Cookie Monster's Canopy Crawl! Among others are: Air Grover, a roller coaster, Snuffalupagus' (my other favorite besides Kermit) Romp, meet elephants in the air, Elmo's Safari-Go-Around, a carousel, Big Bird's Whirly Birdie, a ferris wheel, Light's Camera Action, a 4-D show, Bert and Ernie's watering whole, put down the ducky play place, The Count's Zambezi Rally, a go-cart, and Oscar's Swamp Stomp, refresh area. Cookie Monster NOM NOM NOM!