Sit down, take a shot of Firewhiskey, and prepare yourself for the best news you'll hear all day. Universal just announced [1] that a "new generation of thrill ride" is coming to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter [2] Orlando, and it sounds so awesome that mere Muggles might not be able to handle it.
Rumors have swirled that the Dragon Challenge ride would be closing to make way for something new at the Hogsmeade part of the park, and Universal confirmed that the roller coaster will shut down permanently on Sept. 5 to make way for this all-new ride.
Will it be the Floo Network Ride [4] we have been crossing our fingers and toes for? Universal's exact words describing the ride are that "it will transport you to thrilling places," and since traveling by Floo Powder is one of the main ways wizards move about the Wizarding World, maybe (hopefully!) this means the attraction will be themed after it! Here's what we know, based on Universal's release:
- The thrill ride "will take you deeper into J.K. Rowling's Wizarding World, where you will encounter some of your favorite characters and creatures."
- It's like nothing Universal's done before and will be "action-packed."
- It's a family-friendly ride that will be fun for the entire family.
- The new attraction will be "one of the most highly-themed coaster experiences" Universal has created.
- The Universal Creative team is collaborating with Warner Bros. and the production design team from the Harry Potter films on the coaster.
- It will be in the Hogsmeade section of the park
Get in your last rides on Dragon Challenge — the last day of operation is Monday, Sept. 4.