Universal's Harry Potter Theme Park Set To Boost Florida Holidays
The premier attraction confirmed for the 20 acre (81,000 square metres) park is titled Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and will utilise the latest robo-arm technology to take riders on a guided tour of the franchise"s history, featuring scenes inspired by the books and films. Other attractions include a replica of Hogwarts Castle and Ollivander"s wand shop, as well as the junior rollercoaster Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge, both of which are re-imaginings of existing rides at Universal"s Islands of Adventure.The $265 million (ТЈ169 million) park is expected to open in May, and is hoped to cause a turnaround in Universal Orlando"s visitor numbers, as well as to cause an increase in competition among local rivals - particularly Walt Disney World Resort.
Perhaps in response to Universal"s new attraction, Disney has unveiled its own three-year project to breathe new life into its Magic Kingdom theme park, one of four parks contained within the company"s enduringly popular Florida resort.
Disney news site Magical Mountain reports that these changes will involve the expansion of Fantasyland - the park"s Medieval-themed quarter - as well as the extension of rides and the introduction of carnival games to entertain those waiting in queues. Disney is also planning to introduce a new firework spectacular and to reintroduce the Main Street Electrical Parade during the summer months.
Some of Disney"s other Florida parks will also be receiving a makeover, including the re-launch of Disney"s Wild World of Sports Complex, which will feature more interactive exhibits aided by United States sports broadcaster ESPN.
Sea World Orlando is Florida"s other major player, and is holding its own with the opening of a new ride. Joining its popular Manta white-knuckle rollercoaster which was launched last year, Omaka Rocka opens in March, and is a water flume rollercoaster that promises riders near-vertical thrills like those experienced during extreme sports.
With Florida"s big names rolling out exciting and spellbinding new attractions in the coming months, 2010 looks to be a promising year for Florida holidays.