Quidditch helmets will likely be out in force when Universal opens up the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter region of its theme park in Orlando. “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” “Flight of the Hippogriff” and “Dragon Challenge” are all contenders for ride titles, according to recent trademark filings. Like “E.T.,” “King Kong” and “Back to the Future” before it, the Potter franchise will be getting at least one thrill-ride treatment. This time, however, Universal will be looking at assimilating a whole neighborhood of its park to bring a little bit of Hogwart’s to tourists from around the world and anyone who wants a taste of living like Harry, Ron and Hermione.
The names probably aren’t set in stone yet, according to the Orlando Sentinel, but the attractions set to open by 2010 also include concepts for shops and restaurants to fill out the area.
"Dervish and Banges," the name of the magical needs shop straight out of J.K. Rowling’s books, is on that list of stores. So is the candy shop "Honeydukes" and magic wand retailer "Ollivanders." Visitors may also be able to buy jokes at "Zonko's" or yet-to-be-revealed goods from the "Owl Post," named for the Potter series’ unique message delivery system.
Additional names for restaurants and locations include "Three Broomsticks," "Magic Neep," "Butterbeer" and "Hogsmeade Village" (the latter of which is pictured in a conceptual rendering above).
The wand shop in particular should have all manner of lively wizarding battles taking place in the streets of the park, which should be great fun to watch. A Quidditch-oriented name is noticeably absent from the list, though. Hopefully that situation will be tended to soon.
What rides and attractions would you like to see Universal Orlando include in their new "Harry Potter" section? Do you think it would be incomplete without Quidditch? Sound off in the comment section below!
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