Secrets of Universal’s Epic Universe Wizarding World of Harry Potter Revealed

Muggles rejoice: You can now Slytherin to a new magical realm.

Because Universal Orlando Resort’s Universal Epic Universe is here with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic park, featuring the series’ Ministry of Magic in London plus the Parisian streets from Fantastic Beasts movies.

“It’s one thing to build the place,” Universal Creative Executive Producer Scott Verble exclusively told E! News‘ Keltie Knight and Justin Sylvester, “but it’s another thing to populate it with characters that the guests can have individual connections with.”

As for the type of characters fans are likely to encounter? “You’ll see international students being led around by a Beauxbaton,” Verble said. “You’ll see Aurors of the French ministry, French musicians playing a street show. It’s a really activated environment.”

And for thrill-seekers, there’s the Harry Potter and the Battle of the Ministry ride, which offers an immersive, first-hand look at wizarding justice. 

On the ride, you’ll find “that Dolores Umbridge is on trial for her crimes against the Wizarding World,” Verble teased, “and you’re gonna board one of those enchanted ministry lifts to witness her trial.”

Serving justice can lead to an appetite, so fans can grab some tasty eats or a glass of Butterbeer at restaurants such as the Cafe L’air de la Sirène, pick out a wand at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique and feel what it’s like to cast spells.

And the new Harry Potter-themed world—one of several that have opened at Universal Studios theme parks over the years—also incorporates more familiar elements from the films. As Verble shared, “we’re standing in Nicolas Flamel’s neighborhood.”

Keep reading to see all of the magical celebrity sightings at the Epic Universe grand opening.

(E! and Universal Studios Orlando are part of the NBCUniversal family.)