Universal Orlando Resort has announced exciting new details about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, set to open in 2025 as part of the upcoming Epic Universe theme park. This announcement marks the final land reveal for the highly anticipated park.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Guests will enter this enchanting world through a striking portal topped with a golden hand pointing a wand skyward, elegantly perched atop a tall column. Above the entrance, a Time-Turner will add to the magical ambiance.
In this immersive land, visitors will have the unique opportunity to explore the magical streets of 1920s Paris and experience the British Ministry of Magic during the late 1990s. This journey will allow fans to engage with decades of wizarding history, from the rise of Grindelwald to the fall of Voldemort.
Entering the Streets of Paris
Your adventure begins as you discover a breathtaking structure while wandering through Celestial Park, the central hub of Universal Epic Universe. A towering hand holding a wand marks the entrance to this new realm.
Upon passing under the Phoenix Arch, guests will find themselves in Place Cachée, a vibrant area of Paris designed for witches and wizards of the 1920s. The cobblestone streets are lined with charming shops and cafés, with banners advertising the whimsical Le Cirque Arcanus beckoning visitors to explore.
Scott Verble, the executive producer for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, describes this new setting as a “more refined, Parisian take” on the wizarding world.
Attractions
Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
After experiencing the magic of 1920s Paris, guests will travel through the Paris Métro-Floo station to 1990s London. The Ministry of Magic, a key location in the Harry Potter films, will finally be brought to life in a theme park setting.
Kim Gritzer, the creative director for the ride, shares that the Ministry has been a long-desired addition to the Harry Potter universe at Universal. “It is just a beautiful location, and I am very excited that we decided to do it,” she notes.
The Queue Experience
Similar to attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the queue for this ride will be an experience in itself. Guests will navigate through various recognizable departments and workspaces within the Ministry, immersing themselves in the atmosphere from the moment they enter.
The Storyline
Set shortly after the Battle of Hogwarts, order has been restored at the Ministry of Magic. However, the day of Dolores Umbridge’s trial has arrived, and guests will join Harry, Ron, and Hermione, along with a new character, Higgledy, Umbridge’s former house-elf. Guests will witness Umbridge’s attempts to escape with the help of Death Eaters, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure through the Ministry.
Entertainment
Le Cirque Arcanus
Following the banners to Le Cirque Arcanus, guests will experience a live show featuring magical creatures from around the world. The show aims to reinstate the glory days of the circus, with a storyline that involves the famous magizoologist Newt Scamander.
Cara Pfost Brown, an associate producer for the project, emphasizes the immersive nature of the experience, combining live performances, puppetry, and special effects to create a captivating atmosphere.
Character Interactions
Visitors can expect dynamic character interactions throughout the land, with witches, wizards, and magical creatures roaming the streets. This expanded entertainment program aims to enhance guest engagement and create memorable experiences.
Environmental Interactions
One of the land’s highlights will be the ability to interact with various talking portraits, which will provide personalized responses. Guests will also be able to enhance their spell-casting skills through interactive wand experiences, revealing hidden surprises as they explore the streets of wizarding Paris.
Dining Options
Café L’air de la Sirène
This elegant café will offer French-inspired cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can enjoy their meals in a beautifully designed space adorned with art nouveau mosaics and intricate details reflecting the wizarding world.
Bièraubuerre
Fans of the franchise will be pleased to find Butterbeer available, with a French twist. This beloved beverage will be served under its French name, Bièraubuerre.
Le Gobelet Noir
For a more mysterious dining experience, Le Gobelet Noir will cater to international Dark witches and wizards, offering hearty meals in a shadowy, atmospheric setting.
Bar Moonshine
American witches and wizards can unwind at Bar Moonshine, where they’ll find exclusive beers, wines, and cocktails inspired by U.S. Quidditch teams.
Shopping Experiences
Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magiques
Guests can purchase exquisite wands designed by the renowned wand maker Acajor. This shop will feature a refined interior and a selection of unique wand cores, distinguishing it from other wand shops.
In addition to Acajor’s creations, visitors can explore Les Galeries Mirifiques for wizarding gear, indulge their sweet tooth at K. Rammelle, or find Ministry of Magic-themed items at the Tour En Floo gift shop.
Conclusion
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Universal Orlando Resort, offering a rich blend of storytelling, immersive experiences, and beloved characters. As the opening date approaches, fans eagerly await the chance to step into this magical realm.
For a visual preview of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, be sure to watch the video reveal below.
How do you think the new attractions will compare to existing Harry Potter experiences at Universal?
