You’ve read the book, seen the film and now you want to live the dream. With the release a couple of days ago of Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, Part 2, the final instalment in the boy wizard series, kids will want to visit only one destination this summer - Orlando in Florida.
There, deep in the Kingdom of Orlando, just a broomstick-ride away, lies a shimmering Shangri-La of wicked wizardry. All Muggle minds are firmly focused on The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter, which celebrated its first anniversary last month.
Visitors can soar with Harry over Hogwarts Castle on one of three rides, undertake the Dragon’s Challenge or learn how to approach a Hippogriff.
Muggles might want to visit Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods or Honeydukes, or buy the wand of their choice in Olivander’s Wand Shop. And after all that excitement, parents can take the kids for a refreshing pint of Butterbeer, which sold its millionth non-alcoholic pint in the Hog’s Head within six months of opening.
The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter is part of Universal Orlando Resort, which features two theme parks, three themed hotels and a night-time entertainment complex. So not only can you get a bird’s-eye view of Hogwarts, you can also soar above the streets with Spider-Man, help Shrek save Princess Fiona in Shrek 4-D and join forces with Agent J to do battle with aliens.
Elsewhere in Orlando, Gatorland has just launched its new Screamin’ Gator Zip Line which, in addition to featuring four zip rides 55ft high that travel at up to 30mph, is also a nature walk through the swamp and over an exciting swing bridge.
Many of Orlando’s attractions are introducing tech-breaking new additions in 2012. The Amazing Adventures Of Spider-Man attraction is being reanimated in even higher resolution digital HD, and fans of the phenomenally successful CGI movie Despicable Me will be able to experience an all-new animation adventure at Universal next year.
There’s plenty else going on in Orlando. SeaWorld Orlando recently debuted the killer-whale show One Ocean, and Discovery Cove opened The Grand Reef in June. The stunning tropical universe spans two-and-a-half acres and features multiple levels of exploration, suitable for all ages. Underwater thrill-seekers will love SeaVenture, where guests can trek along the reef underwater, wearing dive helmets.
Walt Disney World Resort has just showcased a new interactive show, Disney Junior - Live On Stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando. The show includes characters from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Mandy and Little Einsteins.
In neighbouring Kissimmee, FantasyWorld’s newest attraction, Fantasy Surf, is the first interactive sport activity where participants of all ages can catch the ultimate indoor wave.
Within striking distance of Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay opened a new coaster, Cheetah Hunt, in May. This rollercoaster combines up-close animal encounters with a thrilling ride.
The Kennedy Space Centre has been selected to display the space shuttle Atlantis, which is due to conclude its final mission this week, upon retirement.
And if you or your kids are Lego-lovers, the eagerly awaited Legoland opens on October 15.
Geared to families with children aged from two to 12, the theme park will consist of ten lands, including Fun Town, Miniland USA and Adventure Xtreme.
Children will even be able to earn their first driving licence.
The real wizardry is going to be in how to fit it all in on one visit ... any suggestions, Master Potter? - Daily Mail