Harry Potter theme park opens in Orlando

Universal has confirmed that its long-anticipated new Harry Potter theme park will open in Florida this year on June 18.

The park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to give it its glorious full title, will boast three themed attractions, including its signature ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey experience.

This all new adventure combines a powerful storyline with spectacular new technology so effectively that guests will be completely immersed in the experience, says Universal.

Guests will experience firsthand a completely new adventure featuring the iconic characters, amazing creatures and recognisable locations they've only read in the books or seen in the films, said Thierry Coup, creative director for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The other themed attractions are Flight of the Hippogriff, described as a family ride, and the Dragon Challenge dual rollercoaster.

Universal claims the park, which is expected to attract thousands of British families this summer, features the first-ever combination of live-action, advanced robotic technology and innovative filmmaking. It has been given the seal of approval by Harry Potter author J K Rowling.

We have created an entirely new way to place our guests into the heart of one of the most compelling stories of our time, said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. "What we have done will forever change the theme park attraction experience."

Tempted to see if the park lives up the hype? A one-day tickets costs .99 for adults and .99 for children aged three to nine, bought direct from Universal.

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