Now open: Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter

By Whit Honea

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June 18 has finally arrived, and with it the official opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort! Located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park, this much-awaited Harry Potter attraction promises the best ofmagic and excitement on your next Florida vacation.

I’ll be taking my family on a Florida vacation this summer, and in addition to the mouse and his Magic Kingdom, we’ll be spending serious quality time at Universal Studios. Harry Potter is, of course, at the top of our list. We love the other lands and attractions at the Islands of Adventure park — we’re big fans of Dr. Seuss and Spider-Man, too — but on this trip,  Harry Potter is our man.

At the Wizarding World, guests will be able to meet the characters (Harry, Ron, Hermione), soar over Hogwarts Castle, witness a Quidditch match and face a Dementor — and all one ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Other attractions include: Dragon Challenge, a twin high-speed roller coaster; the family coaster Flight of the Hippogriff, and many of the other characters and locations that Harry Potter fans have come to know and love.

Based upon the popular books by J.K. Rowling and the largest-grossing film franchise in movie history, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has a lot of expectation riding on it. But Universal Studios is ready for the challenge, and fans are anxious to get inside. Take advantage of Universal Orlando promotions and buy your tickets in advance to save.

Whit Honea is a travel writer living in Seattle with his wife and two children. He packs light and travels often to far-away places, exotic lands and more than a few theme parks.

Tagged: Family time, Florida