Newsy: Harry Potter Theme Park Opens

Thousands came out for opening of 'The Wizarding World of Harry Potter' at Universal Orlando. However, some say the theme park is too expensive.

Harry Potter fans around the globe are excited for the newest addition to Universal Orlando Resort — The Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park. 

The Orlando Sentinel got these images of opening day — thousands crowded the entrance.

The attraction is getting rave reviews from the likes of MSNBC, WEWS, and WFTS. 

“Two…One, LUMOS MAXIMA!”

“The wait is over. Now, Harry Potter fans from across the world who have read and watched the wizarding journeys from J.K. Rowling’s Potter saga can finally experience Harry’s world for themselves.” (MSNBC)

“The park is a replica of the town of Hogsmead and the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and had glowing reports.” (WEWS)

“You want to know what’s the best thing about this? Take a look at the detail. This is Hogwarts castle behind me and it’s just amazing what they’ve done here because you walk here and it’s like you’re walking onto the movie." (WFTS)

Fans have waited five years for this, and while it seems most people are pleased with the park, critics are expressing disdain over high costs. The Wallet Pop andBBC highlight the pricey problem: …“and you can only buy it here, and it’ll cost you. Golden snitches, fifteen dollars. Omioculars, thirty-five dollars. Sneak-o-Scopes, fifteen dollars. Remembrall, thirteen dollars.” (Wallet Pop) 

“If you want to dress like one of the Hogwarts kids this is going to send you back a hundred dollars. This little wand here is Hermione’s wand. This is thirty bucks. And if you want to ride the same broomstick as Harry Potter himself, this Firebolt is three-hundred dollars.” (BBC) 

The park is so expensive that some don’t think they will be able to afford it. One mother tells The Stir: “…that adds up to $296 for entry only to one park for a family of four with two kids under age 9. ... More power to you if you can afford to make this trip, but this adventure isn't going to make my family's summer vacation plans…”

So what do you think of the new theme park? Is the magic worth the money?

WRITER: Jessica Duong

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