Latest news with #TheWizardingWorldofHarryPotter
USA Today
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
For Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World is as close as Orlando
I never got that letter from Hogwarts – or Ilvermorny, the wizarding school in the United States. But I still get to visit the Wizarding World whenever I go to Orlando. Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan and Universal Beijing Resort all bring the magic of Harry Potter to life, but only the Florida resort expands the Wizarding World beyond Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. Here's what Harry Potter fans can expect at Universal Orlando and how much time and money it takes to visit. Which Universal park is Harry Potter in? All three of Universal Orlando's theme parks have their own corner of the Wizarding World. Universal Islands of Adventure is home to Hogsmeade. Universal Studios Florida invites guests into Diagon Alley. Universal Epic Universe transports guests to both the Ministry of Magic in Harry Potter's time and 1920s wizarding Paris. Universal also calls its Volcano Bay water park a theme park, but it's not a traditional theme park and has no Harry Potter presence. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade This was the first Wizarding World of Harry Potter across Universal's resorts, and it remains a fan favorite. Fans will immediately recognize places like Honeydukes and the Three Broomsticks in the snow-capped wizarding village, where Hogwarts Castle looms in the distance. Honeydukes sells all sorts of sweets like Chocolate Frogs and Fizzing Whizzbees, while the Three Broomsticks serves up British comfort food like Shepherd's Pie and wizarding drinks like Pumpkin Juice and Butterbeer. Peering in the shop windows, guests will spot Hermione's gown from the Yule Ball and magical sights that engage when guests cast spells with interactive wands. (Additional wand experiences are available in the other parks.) The most popular attraction here is Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motobike Adventure, a coaster whose vehicles resemble the motorcycle Sirius Black gave Hagrid, with a sidecar. Younger or more timid guests, like my youngest, may prefer Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster alongside Hagrid's hut with terrific views of the park. Can you go into Hogwarts at Universal Orlando? Yes. Hogwarts Castle houses Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which hurls guests through the castle's grounds and into the path of a dragon, acromantula (giant spiders like Aragog) and dementors. Guests prone to motion sickness may want to avoid this ride, but fans should still walk through the queue filled with familiar scenes from the books and films, like Professor Dumbledore's office, walls of talking portraits, the Sorting Hat and the Mirror of Erised. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Despite its name, there's more to this corner of the Wizarding World than Diagon Alley. Outside, guests can visit King's Cross Station, where they can catch the Hogwarts Express on Platform 9¾ to Hogsmeade, if they have park-to-park tickets. Guests can also see the Knight Bus, and if they stand outside Sirius Black's family home at the right time, they can spot faithful house elf Kreacher. Passing through the brick entrance to Diagon Alley feels like stepping into the films, where Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, the Leaky Cauldron, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and more await. Gringotts is topped with a dragon that breathes fire at regular intervals, as weather permits. Inside the bank, guests can ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, the main ride besides the Hogwarts Express. Don't leave without wandering through Knockturn Alley, one of the coolest places in the park, in every sense of the word. Many guests also like to cool off with treats from Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour, which serves Butterbeer soft-serve and hard-pack flavors, including Clotted Cream and Sticky Toffee Pudding. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Unlike Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, most of this world is set in 1920s Paris during the time of the 'Fantastic Beasts' films. The wizarding neighborhood of Place Cachée feels both familiar and foreign with full-scale Haussmann-style buildings. Easter eggs include the statue that came to life in the 'Fantastic Beasts' films and myriad magical creatures adorning places like Café L'air De La Sirène, the only place to find Bieraubeurre (Butterbeer) crepes. There are two major attractions here: the live Le Cirque Arcanus show and Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, the most popular ride at Epic Universe and a jaw-dropping recreation of the Ministry itself. From nifflers to demiguises: These magical creatures make Epic Universe's Wizarding World Which Universal Orlando Park is better for Harry Potter? Better is subjective. My favorite is probably still Diagon Alley, because it's where Harry Potter first stepped into the Wizarding World after finding out he was a wizard, and Universal's version stays true to the films. However, my daughters both favor Hogsmeade, and the Ministry of Magic is dazzling in its own right. How much does it cost to go to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando? Ticket prices vary by date and park at Universal Orlando. For Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, single-park tickets start at $119 for guests ages 10 and over but do not include access to the Hogwarts Express. Park-to-park tickets for those same parks start at $174. Universal Epic Universe tickets start at $139 a day. Fans will want to budget extra for dining and possibly souvenirs. Tip: Breakfast is the best deal at Three Broomsticks and the Leaky Cauldron; it includes a choice of drink, such as Butterbeer. Also, not everyone needs to buy an interactive wand. Friends or family can take turns using one, then reuse it on future trips. How long does it take to do 'Harry Potter World' Orlando? Guests should plan for at least two days to explore all three Wizarding World areas across Universal Orlando, but they'll need longer to fully experience the larger resort, which includes many other themed areas featuring beloved franchises like Jurassic World, Minions, Nintendo and How to Train Your Dragon.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Florida man sues Universal over alleged malfunction of 'Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey' ride
The Brief A Florida man alleges Universal Orlando's Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride left him stranded midair, causing lasting injuries. The lawsuit claims the park ignored prior warnings and failed to act. Universal has not yet responded to the $50,000-plus complaint. ORLANDO, Fla. - A Florida man has filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50,000 in damages against Universal Orlando Resort, alleging he was injured during a ride malfunction. What we know A St. Johns County man has filed a lawsuit against Universal Orlando Resort, seeking more than $50,000 in damages. The suit stems from a July 2, 2023, incident involving the "Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey" ride. The plaintiff claims the ride came to a sudden halt, leaving him stranded in a tilted cart for approximately an hour before being repositioned. He alleges the malfunction resulted in injuries and emotional distress. What we don't know Universal Orlando has not yet issued a public response or comment on the allegations. It is unclear whether the park has conducted an internal investigation or made technical changes to the ride following the incident. There is also no information available about whether similar lawsuits have been filed or whether regulatory authorities were involved. The backstory According to the complaint, the ride was operating as intended when it unexpectedly stopped. The plaintiff argues that the ride has a history of issues and that Universal continued to run it despite known risks. The lawsuit alleges a failure to repair or warn about the potential for power-related stoppages, which the plaintiff claims were foreseeable and avoidable. Dig deeper Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is an indoor thrill ride at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure theme park and part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The attraction includes robotic arm technology, motion simulation and 3D/4D imagery. Guests ride in secure seats attached to the robotic arm which pivots, drops, spins, and twists above its track. "Enter through the towering castle gates and make your way down the familiar passageways and corridors of Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Then soar above the castle grounds as you join Harry Potter™ and his friends on a thrilling adventure," Universal explains. "Groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technology (and a little magic) creates a one-of-a-kind ride." Universal has an identical ride at its parks in California, Japan, and China. Timeline The incident occurred on July 2, 2023. The plaintiff was allegedly stuck in the ride for nearly an hour that day. The legal complaint was filed in Orange County, Florida, on May 28, 2025. What they're saying The suit includes two counts: premises liability and general negligence. It argues that Universal breached its duty of care by failing to implement proper safety protocols, conduct timely inspections, maintain backup systems, and communicate warnings about ongoing risks — including rolling power outages. The plaintiff argues that this created "unreasonable risk of harm." Universal was "aware that the rollercoaster had similar problems in the past and failed to take adequate or reasonable steps to remedy this known problem," the complaint alleges. It further claims the theme park acted "with wanton, willful, and reckless disregard for the safety and health of the plaintiff," citing a profit motive for continuing to operate the ride despite the risks. As a result, the plaintiff claims he suffered "bodily injury, resulting in pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, scarring, mental anguish, loss of capacity for the enjoyment of life, expense of hospitalization, medical and nursing care and treatment, loss of earnings, loss of ability to earn money, damage to property, inconvenience, and aggravation of a previously existing condition. Such losses are either permanent or continuing in nature." As of Monday, June 2, 2025, Universal had not responded publicly. Read The Lawsuit Below is the full text of the lawsuit, which you can also find at this link (PDF). Click to open this PDF in a new window. What's next The complaint demands a jury trial and seeks damages, court costs, and additional relief as allowed by law. The plaintiff is represented by Rob Cook, Attorney at Law, P.A., based in St. Augustine. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: Download the FOX Local app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines FOX Local:Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV The Source This story was written based on information from documents filed in the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court in and for Orange County.
Kyodo News
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Kyodo News
New Universal Studios Japan chief eyes expansion of park attractions
KYODO NEWS - 2 hours ago - 12:00 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism The new head of the operator of Universal Studios Japan has expressed eagerness to expand the park's themed areas, building on the success of attractions such as Super Nintendo World based on the universe of iconic video game character Mario. "We will develop in accordance with the market," said Taku Murayama, 53, who assumed his new leadership post at USJ LLC, which operates the theme park in Osaka in western Japan, effective Sunday. Universal Studios Japan will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, having regained popularity after 2014 when it launched The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an area centering on the British boy wizard series. It broadened the zone featuring characters from gaming giant Nintendo Co. last year with the introduction of the world's first attraction area based on the popular Donkey Kong series, aiming to garner more visitors from abroad as well as Japan. Murayama, who joined USJ in 2000 after receiving a master's degree from a U.S. university, added that the World Exposition in Osaka, which opened in April, is an "extremely good touchstone" for the growth of the area around the amusement facility. "I want to help enliven" Osaka together, Murayama said, referring to the integrated resort facilities, including a casino, taking shape next to USJ. He voiced hope that their proximity would be mutually beneficial in attracting visitors. With the service industry struggling to secure human resources as part of Japan's nationwide labor shortage trend, Murayama said, "We will actively adopt digital services and operate efficiently," adding he would also strive to improve the work environment. Originally from Tokyo, Murayama succeeded JL Bonnier, who had led USJ since 2015. Related coverage: Shanghai to open Harry Potter theme park in 2027 Ghibli Park to exhibit anime director Hayao Miyazaki's beloved car Disney-themed Shinkansen trains to begin service in Japan from Feb. 21
The Mainichi
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Mainichi
New Universal Studios Japan chief eyes expansion of park attractions
OSAKA (Kyodo) -- The new head of the operator of Universal Studios Japan has expressed eagerness to expand the park's themed areas, building on the success of attractions such as Super Nintendo World based on the universe of iconic video game character Mario. "We will develop in accordance with the market," said Taku Murayama, 53, who assumed his new leadership post at USJ LLC, which operates the theme park in Osaka in western Japan, effective Sunday. Universal Studios Japan will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, having regained popularity after 2014 when it launched The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an area centering on the British boy wizard series. It broadened the zone featuring characters from gaming giant Nintendo Co. last year with the introduction of the world's first attraction area based on the popular Donkey Kong series, aiming to garner more visitors from abroad as well as Japan. Murayama, who joined USJ in 2000 after receiving a master's degree from a U.S. university, added that the World Exposition in Osaka, which opened in April, is an "extremely good touchstone" for the growth of the area around the amusement facility. "I want to help enliven" Osaka together, Murayama said, referring to the integrated resort facilities, including a casino, taking shape next to USJ. He voiced hope that their proximity would be mutually beneficial in attracting visitors. With the service industry struggling to secure human resources as part of Japan's nationwide labor shortage trend, Murayama said, "We will actively adopt digital services and operate efficiently," adding he would also strive to improve the work environment. Originally from Tokyo, Murayama succeeded JL Bonnier, who had led USJ since 2015.
Kyodo News
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Kyodo News
New Universal Studios Japan chief eyes expansion of park attractions
KYODO NEWS - 14 minutes ago - 12:00 | All, Japan, Travel/Tourism The new head of the operator of Universal Studios Japan has expressed eagerness to expand the park's themed areas, building on the success of attractions such as Super Nintendo World based on the universe of iconic video game character Mario. "We will develop in accordance with the market," said Taku Murayama, 53, who assumed his new leadership post at USJ LLC, which operates the theme park in Osaka in western Japan, effective Sunday. Universal Studios Japan will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026, having regained popularity after 2014 when it launched The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an area centering on the British boy wizard series. It broadened the zone featuring characters from gaming giant Nintendo Co. last year with the introduction of the world's first attraction area based on the popular Donkey Kong series, aiming to garner more visitors from abroad as well as Japan. Murayama, who joined USJ in 2000 after receiving a master's degree from a U.S. university, added that the World Exposition in Osaka, which opened in April, is an "extremely good touchstone" for the growth of the area around the amusement facility. "I want to help enliven" Osaka together, Murayama said, referring to the integrated resort facilities, including a casino, taking shape next to USJ. He voiced hope that their proximity would be mutually beneficial in attracting visitors. With the service industry struggling to secure human resources as part of Japan's nationwide labor shortage trend, Murayama said, "We will actively adopt digital services and operate efficiently," adding he would also strive to improve the work environment. Originally from Tokyo, Murayama succeeded JL Bonnier, who had led USJ since 2015. Related coverage: Shanghai to open Harry Potter theme park in 2027 Ghibli Park to exhibit anime director Hayao Miyazaki's beloved car Disney-themed Shinkansen trains to begin service in Japan from Feb. 21
