Universal Orlando plans Potter attraction

ORLANDO, Fla., July 14 (UPI) -- A ride, shop and eatery reportedly are being refurbished and will reopen as part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction at Universal Orlando.

The Orlando (Fla.) Sentinel reported the theme park's Flying Unicorn children's roller coaster, the Enchanted Oak Tavern restaurant, the Dragon's Keep store and the Alchemy Bar have all been closed down and are being refurbished to incorporate themes from the wildly popular series of Harry Potter books and films.

Licensed by author J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment, the Potter attractions area is expected to open in late 2009 or early 2010.

The 20-acre area will include rides, shops, restaurants and theme-park versions of Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village, the Sentinel said.

Universal declined to give away too many details about its plans.

"It's too soon to talk about specifics," spokesman Tom Schroder told the newspaper.