Over two years ago, in May of 2007, Warner Brothers and Universal Studios held a press conference that announced to the world that the two companies intended to create a one-of-a-kind theme park attraction at the Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  And although much hype has been building among the muggle fans in the Harry Potter community, details about the $250 million dollar project have been kept mum.

Until recently, when in mid-September 2009, the companies again addressed the media, explaining the vast scope of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, opening in Spring 2010.

J.K. Rowling’s book series, published in 67 languages, has sold over 400 million copies worldwide and the films have grossed in excess of $5 billion dollars at the box office with two more movies still to be produced in coming years.  And accurately based on the sets of the movies, the new attraction is happy to join the Harry Potter franchise.

The first stop will be Hogsmeade, the Wizarding village right outside... Hogwarts that is.  It is home to the Hogwarts Express, the train the delivers students to the school at the beginning of each term.  The billowing smoke and the loud whistle signal cannot be ignored as the train pulls into the station.

Spend some time browsing the stores.  At Zonko’s joke shop visitors can purchase their very own pair of Fred and George Weasley’s Extendable Ears, as well as Boxing Telescopes and even Sneakoscopes.  After the fun and games, head to Ollivander’s wand shop where fans can take part in an interactive experience in which the wand chooses its wizard.  Or for the latest Quidditch equipment and apparel, head to Dervish and Banges for all of your Wizarding sporting goods needs.

For guests requiring refreshments, there are plenty of establishments to cure those hunger pangs.  Honeydukes offers traditional wizard treats including Chocolate Grogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, just make sure not to select vomit or ear wax.  Then head into either The Three Broomsticks or Hog’s Head Pub for some authentic Butterbeer and pumpkin juice.

And if at anytime a visitor feels like he or she is too out of touch with the muggle world, check out The Owlery, where owls await their next postal delivery.  Plus the Owl Post even send letters with an official Hogsmeade postmark and with a certified The Wizarding World of Harry Potter stamp.

After exploring the village, remember there are plenty of other rides and attractions within this magical world.  Dragon Challenge is a double high-speed rollercoaster that features many elements from the Triwizard Tournament, including the Goblet of Fire.  Or for the younger kids, there is the less intense Flight of the Hippogriff.  A family coaster, the ride takes guests on a hippogriff flight over Hogwarts Castle.  Will you be able to find Buckbeat?

Then inside Hogwarts itself is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.  Although not many details about this ride have been released yet, the experience promises to use state-of-the-art technology which has never been utilized before to bring the Harry Potter tale to life in an entirely original experience.

Finally, before exiting this magical world, check out Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods.  Here is where visitors will find items from the Ministry of Magic and magical creatures merchandise, Omnioculars, and even remote control Golden Snitches.

Designed in cooperation with J.K. Rowling and the Harry Potter films’ production designer, Stuart Craig and art director, Alan Gilmore, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is sure to entice fans for years to come.

“All of the action and adventures of Harry Potter’s world will come to life here at Universal Orlando Resort,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks and Resorts.  “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be unlike any other experience on earth and we can’t wait to see the looks on our guests’ faces as they enter this rich environment.”

“Harry Potter continues to spark the imaginations of fans of all ages and we really have seen the anticipation continue to build for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” added Brad Globe, President, Warner Brothers Consumer Products.   

Upon the attraction’s opening, Harry Potter fans will find another way to experience, enjoy and connect with the fictional world they have come to love.

For more information, including videos and other multimedia, visit the Official Site.