Castle Attractions Opening in U.S. Include Harry Potter and Medieval Fortress
Published 03/29/2010
(Lead Hill, Arkansas) – Two kinds of castles are opening in the U.S. this season: one is a medieval fortress in Arkansas filled with time travel possibilities, and another is a bit of Harry Potter on U.S. soil in Florida.
Ozark Medieval Fortress, located in Arkansas, USA, is a castle in the making, being built in front of the visitors using tools and techniques of the 13th century. A team of 25 dedicated artisans and skilled craftsmen authentically dressed will show and explain the building techniques available 800 years ago.
To guarantee the authenticity and credibility of this project, architectural experts along with historians and scientists will validate each stage of the building process. This unique experience will bring alive the intersection where book knowledge meets the fascinating and colorful reality of the middle ages satisfying both children and educators.
Ozark Medieval Fortress is a living and permanently developing tableau of history where tourists, researchers, students of all ages, and the staff will come together. Ground was broken in June, 2009, the site will be open to the public on May 1, 2010, the construction is projected to run for twenty years.
The first fortified castle on American soil will be a thrilling, educational, scientific, and emotional experience, a soaring flight into ages past, an outdoor laboratory and a living history book. Visitors will be able to dive into an exciting, dazzling trip into the far past. 870.436.7625. http://ozarkmedievalfortress.com/
In Orlando, Florida, Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure park is bringing Harry Potter and his gang to life. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction opens June 18, and will host the Hogwarts school, Hogs Head Pub and the Three Broomsticks Inn, among other landmarks from the Harry Potter flicks.
The attraction was created in close collaboration with set designers from the Potter films, along with some input from author J.K. Rowling herself. The attention to detail is stunning, according to reporters who have toured the facility, and even set designer Alan Gilmore had high praise for the mythical world come to life. A wand shop comes fully stocked. The office of a central character is fully realized. Even the Hogwarts Express locomotive puffs away nearby.
Inside the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, a ride takes kids and their parents on a simulated flight on broomsticks. While waiting in line, visitors can take in the full atmosphere of the castle, including its dungeon, potted mandrakes and that wacky portrait gallery where the paintings chat amongst themselves.
There are also two roller coaster rides.
Universal Orlando is also offering some Harry Potter travel packages before the opening date. http://www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter.
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