The media continues to buzz about the forthcoming Harry Potter World at Universal Park. Reports now indicate that the $250 million project will open in Spring, 2010 at Islands of Adventure. One of the industry’s inside sources, The Theme Park Insider newsletter, indicates that Harry Potter at Universal could be a little over exposed.

Why? Harry Potter Land at Universal will not be a new theme park, but a a park within a park and this could confuse some visitors. Moreover, the attraction will be mostly comprised of three new rides and there is the possibility that some may be disappointed if expecting an entire new theme park. Although this is intriguing, as the Harry Potter park opens and the reviews begin we think most such issues if any will be quickly resolved.

The three rides are believed to be Dragon Challenge (a roller coaster), Flight of the Hippogriff (a more family friendly coaster) and the ride Harry Potter Forbidden Journey which takes the rider through an actual Hogwarts castle.

The Harry Potter Universal Ride could also expand over time. As they often say, we believe this concept “has legs”. There is a difference between a trend and a fad. The whole Potter phenomena will last for years to come, and in the longer term this initial expansion will be a huge hit for the park, and for Orlando as well.

 If you are inclined to visit in the spring to enjoy the opening, the closest vacation home communities are Vista Cay and the Isles at Cay Commons Villas. Vacation rentals are typically a superior and economic alternative to hotels as such homes include full catering kitchens and expansive living space. Consult our site for over 80 reviews of resort communities in the Central Florida area.