Orlando (CNN) -- First, it was a record-breaking book series, selling more than 450 million copies worldwide. Then, it became the most successful movie franchise in history. Now, it is a theme-park phenomenon that has fans in a frenzy. Diagon Alley, a second area of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, opens July 8 at Universal Studios Florida. Guests will be immersed in the new Potter paradise, which spans about 20 acres and includes a high-tech ride, the Leaky Cauldron restaurant, a handful of elaborate shops and stage shows, and the Hogwarts Express train between Diagon Alley and the separate Hogsmeade area in the adjacent Islands of Adventure park.
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Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida expands the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
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A new ride, Escape from Gringotts, is at the center of this part of the experience
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General admission to Universal Studios includes Diagon Alley but not Hogsmeade
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Park-to-park admission is required to visit both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade
Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley
Diagon Alley
It takes about four minutes to shuttle people back and forth between Hogsmeade (in Islands of Adventure) and @placeholder (in Universal Studios).
Universal Studios
So, it comes as no surprise that @placeholder continues to invest in the franchise.
Hogwarts Express train
However, if you'd like to pop over to Hogsmeade (at Universal's Islands of Adventure) via the @placeholder, you must purchase park-to-park admission ($136 for adults, $130 for kids ages 3 to 9).