Universal Orlando has revealed further details about its latest attraction, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, including the official opening date of July 8.
Departing from the current Hogsmeade attraction that opened in 2010, guests will step aboard the Hogwarts Express and enjoy an exciting journey to a replica of Kings Cross station in Universal’s interpretation of London, which contains elements from the stories such as the Knight Bus and 12 Grimmauld Place.
From here visitors can discover Diagon Alley, a copy of the original set featuring all the establishments from the books and films, including Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes, Ollivander’s wand shop and the Leaky Cauldron pub.
Guests can also explore the wizarding world’s darker side in Knockturn Alley, enjoy a Butterbeer ice-cream at Florian Fortescue’s, and interact with numerous parts of the site using special hi-tech wands.
Located in the heart of this new area is ‘Escape from Gringotts’, an immersive state-of-the-art 3D ride where visitors will encounter a 60-foot fire-breathing dragon and come face to face with the story’s arch-villain, Lord Voldemort.
Universal’s creative team worked with Stuart Craig and his production team from the Harry Potter films to immerse guests in the scene.
Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative, said: “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts will change the way you think about theme park attractions.
“We’ve created an entirely new type of ride that propels guests into the story like never before, and guests will remember it long after their visit to Diagon Alley.”
