The universe shook June 18, 2010. On that date, Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
Size Matters
The attraction is inside the massive Hogwarts Castle, complete with turrets, is a full-scale replica from the Harry Potter movies. Although it is a stunning 150 ft. tall, it appears 4 times taller due to architectural tricks.
Story-Rich Details
Universal Creative went to painstaking efforts to bring J.K. Rowling’s series of books to life, and it paid off. Guests feel the illusion that they have entered Harry Potter’s world the second they step the bustling, fully-themed Diagon Alley, which is loaded with shops and eateries. Your eyes land on easter eggs in every direction. From the Crumple-Horned Snorkack on the second story of the Magical Menagerie to a Leaky Cauldron sign that really leaks, the ‘world’ was Instagram ready months before the app was created. And while Butterbeer was referenced in the books, its popularity soared in the park. These details build the fantasy that guests are truly ‘experiencing’ Harry’s world.
Tech Done Right
Every sight, sound, and motion is intentionally synchronized using what continues to be the most advanced projection, audio, and set design technology available. The ride system, which is invisible to guests, is actually mobile robots. The robotic arms have more ‘degrees of freedom’ than any other ride system, thus creating sensations like no other. But the tech is the secret ingredient that makes full immersion into the story possible; it never crosses the mind of guests. To them, riding the Forbidden Journey is an indescribable, yet unforgettable experience.
Harry the Influencer
The Forbidden Journey attraction has been so successful, Universal Parks & Resorts has opened 3 more.
- Universal Studios Japan – Jul 14 ‘14
- Universal Studios Hollywood – Apr 7 ‘16
- Universal Studios Beijing – Sep 20 ‘21
This landmark ride caused ripple effects through the attractions industry. Guest expectations leaped into the stratosphere. And park operators saw that big ideas bring even bigger gate receipts.
Without a doubt, we can be thankful to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey for being the catalyst that inspired Super Nintendo World, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Avengers Campus.
There is no doubt that Universal Studio’s daring, dramatic vision a dozen years ago created a far bigger shift in the landscape than all of the equally well-themed big lands that have followed.
Harry Potter changed lands, worlds and the Attractions Industry forever. All of us at Dynamic, and millions of guests, are thankful.