A First Glimpse of Hogwarts

I don’t typically go gaga for amusement parks, but this Hogwarts castle recreation at Universal Orlando Resort sent a tingle through my Muggle blood. When it’s finished, the castle will be the home of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a “thrilling, state-of-the-art attraction” that Universal promises will use “groundbreaking technology” to “bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before experienced.”  (I hope that means visitors will fly). It’s part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, due to open in spring 2010.

For Harry fans who prefer technology that was state-of-the-art in the 19th century, you can take a ride on the Jacobite Steam Train (aka Hogwarts Express) that chugs from Fort William to Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands, summers only (May to October). You’ll ride through the same spectacular scenery and cross familiar bridges, but you’ll have to bring your own Chocolate Frogs. 

Photo credit: Kevin Kolczynski, Universal Orlando Resort