Let's face it: Being a muggle kind of sucks. Sure, we've got cars and trains and planes to get us where we need to be. But, wizards can apparate; they can teleport places, for Merlin's sake. That kind of power sure would make traveling to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, all the way across the country, so much easier, right?
Well, good news, Potterheads! A second Wizarding World is opening right here in sunny Southern California. The theme park will play host to a variety of attractions, just like its sister park in Florida. Some of these include rides called Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, where the Boy Who Lived himself takes you on a broom ride through Hogwarts, and The Flight of the Hippogriff, a roller coaster based on our beloved Buckbeak.
Here are some other popular attractions from Florida's Wizarding World that we hope will be just as fantastic in California's.
1. Ollivander's Wand Shop
Here, young wizards and witches can purchase a wand of their very own. Remember, the wand chooses the wizard!
2. Butterbeer
And, of course, everyone's going to want to try some of that famous Butterbeer, which is available in carts around the park.
3. Hagrid's Hut
Though guests aren't allowed inside, just the sight of Hagrid's Hut'll put a smile on any wizard's face.
4. The Hogwarts Express
Guests have the opportunity to ride the Hogwarts Express, which connects two parts of Florida's parks: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Though there is no mention of the Express for the park in California, we can only hope one will be included for photo ops, at the very least.
5. The Castle
The pièce de résistance is the Hogwarts castle itself. Being up close and personal with the wizarding school is a feeling guests won't soon forget.
In the words of J.K. Rowling, "Whether you come back by page or by the big screen" - or in our case, by theme park - "Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home."
