Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled the details and first official look at its highly anticipated new land, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic, set to be a part of the upcoming Universal Epic Universe. This announcement, revealed in a press release this week, marks the fifth and final immersive area of the park, joining previously announced attractions like Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How To Train Your Dragon – Isles of Berk, and Celestial Park. These five lands will feature a range of experiences including attractions, dining, and shopping.
A Blend of Magic and History
The new Harry Potter-themed area will merge elements from the iconic British Ministry of Magic seen in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series with the magical Paris of the 1920s, as depicted in Warner Bros. Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts films. This addition continues the global phenomenon that began with the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade in 2010 and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley in 2014. Universal promises that this new land will once again elevate the standards of theme park entertainment, thanks to a collaboration between Universal Creative and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment.
Innovative Attractions and Entertainment
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic will offer a range of new experiences including high-quality dining, retail options, and spellbinding entertainment. The flagship attraction, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, will feature cutting-edge ride technology and elaborate environments. This ride will transport guests from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic via Metro-Floo, where they will experience an epic confrontation featuring familiar characters like Harry Potter and the notorious Death Eaters. Riders will also witness the trial of Dolores Umbridge in a grand atrium setting.
Le Cirque Arcanus: A Magical Theater Experience
The land will debut Le Cirque Arcanus, the first full-scale live theater production within The Wizarding World. Guests will be captivated by a variety of performances, including puppetry, aerial acts, and live performers, all centered around a mystical traveling wizard circus led by Ringmaster Skender.
Interactive Fun and Themed Dining
Interactive wands will be a highlight, allowing guests to cast spells at designated locations throughout the land. These wands, available from Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, include both familiar designs and exclusive options. Visitors will also encounter street performers, including students from Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The dining options will include Café L’Air De La Sirène, featuring French-inspired cuisine; Le Gobelet Noir, a haven for “dark witches and wizards”; and Bar Moonshine, a Quidditch-themed lounge. Guests can also enjoy Butterbeer at the Bièraubeurre Cart and indulge in French-themed confectioneries. Keepsakes and themed merchandise will be available at Les Galeries Mirifiques and the Métro-Floo gift shop, Tour En Floo.
Epic Universe to Open in 2025
Epic Universe, set to open in 2025, will complement existing parks Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay, and will feature 50 attractions, making it a prime destination for extended vacations. The park will be accompanied by three new Universal hotel resorts: Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and Universal Helios Grand Hotel. The Helios Grand Hotel will be uniquely located within Epic Universe, offering a dedicated theme park entrance for its guests.
Preview and Future Plans
For those eager to explore the new park ahead of its opening, The Universal Epic Universe Preview Center is now open at CityWalk. This interactive retail space includes a detailed model of the new theme park and augmented reality features. An official opening date for Epic Universe has yet to be announced.