New Harry Potter Attraction Works a Little Magic on Orlando’s Economy

Things have been pretty good in Orlando lately. Bookings are up and theme park admission is healthy. Vacation homes are in great supply and with summer competition reaching its height, there’s no shortage of great deals on affordable accommodations. And now, renowned fantasy author JK Rowling has cast her spell on Orlando tourism industry. The result is… magical.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” opened last Friday at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park. The response has been overwhelming, to say the least. Eager crowds throng outside the park’s gates hours before opening time. Potter heads and thrill seekers alike all flock to IOA to experience the excitement and wonder of the Wizarding World for themselves. And to drink a Butterbeer or two. Yes, you can actually drink Butterbeer. It’s a non-alcoholic, vanilla-ie, butterscotchy beverage available regular and frozen. A big seller indeed. In a recent interview by the L.A. Times, VP of Universal Creative, Thierry Coup, said: “We expected it to be a great success. But we delivered beyond expectation and we’re seeing a response beyond expectation.”

Certainly, the addition of Wizarding World is doing wonders for Universal’s revenue, as well as helping the hotels and vacation home owners who are housing the masses of Potter pilgrims. But the effects are more far-reaching than that; Potter mania is causing a wave of increased park activity to ripple through the area. Fun Spot Action Park, specializing in zippy thrill rides like go-karts and bumper cars is already getting a boost in spill-over business. As affordable alternatives to mainstream parks like Disney and Universal, so-called “secondary” venues like Fun Spot reap the benefits of big-name attractions like Potter. “We’re happy and confident that the economy’s turned around, and all of I-Drive [International Drive] will definitely benefit,” said a Fun Spot spokesperson.

All in all, it’s a great time to visit Orlando. You can make the most of the competitive rates, summer specials, and wide selection of affordable vacation homes in the area. Summer’s here. Are you on vacation yet? Click on our link below for great deals today.