Show di Mobil

When I joined the legions of Muggles reading J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series, I was struck by how vivid the books’ imagery was. The Hogwarts grounds, the Diagon Alley shops, the town of Hogsmeade — everything in the Potter universe seemed so real. It made me long to be part of that world, a wish only made more fervent by the six (and counting) “Harry Potter” films.

I and my fellow wizard-wannabes are about to get our wish: A new theme park called The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opens to the public at Universal Orlando Resort on June 18. In the latest Bing Travel slide show, you’ll find images of the park’s highlights, including re-creations of Hogwarts Castle, the Hogwarts Express train and Hogsmeade shops, along with thrill rides for young and old.

Our slide show isn’t limited to the Potter park, though. We’ve also got previews of some of the most exciting new rides premiering this year at theme parks around the country, including roller coasters, water rides and a reincarnation of an old-time amusement park on Coney Island.

I can’t wait to visit Universal Orlando and immerse myself in its Potter-phernalia — I’m particularly eager to sample the Rowling-approved recipe for butterbeer, which has always intrigued me — but I’d love to try the rest of the year’s new theme-park thrills too, especially the Wildebeest water coaster at Holiday World in Santa Claus, Ind.

Do you have plans to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or any of these other theme parks? Which attractions are you especially excited about? Share your thoughts with fellow travelers and thrill-seekers in the comments section.