HI, I've been lurking in the shadows at this thread and the one before it since before the castle walls were in place.
Let me say a few things....
#1. This whole "Universal emailed me" is total BS. This Scott in NY may have some "info" but he's not going to stop posting because Universal contacted him, its because he doesn't have any more info then what he's already given us. Which wasnt much really.
#2. Im super disappointed that they are chaning the DD queue, because i think its the best coaster queue ever...besides Expedition Everest of course..... Im worried that they will make the castle "less dark and scary" and more lit up to show all of the Potter props. Boo to that idea. I prefer to stumble around in the dark.
#3. About ME: I live in S.Florida, and plan to visit Orlando for a work conference on June 22nd-24th...may have to stop in and visit Potter. If not, will probably go sometime In November once the crowds have simmered down. I've been to Disney numerous times, and IOA about 5 or 6 times. Not a fan of the "other" Universal park..but I have not ridden HRRR yet. I thought The Simpsons ride was a waste of time and money. Bring Back Doc Brown!! Never forgave Disney for taking away Mr. Toads Wild Ride. I actually visited Universal Studios way back before IOA was around, and remember seeing a special "sneak preview" of IOA next to the King Kong attraction. It featured models and diagrams of all the lands an potential rides, even before the Marvel License was obtained....boy those days seem so far now.
#4 I think the user Just some Dude is 100% correct on his assumptions on how the ride will work. He seems to know a LOT about this sort of thing...possible he's an insider?
#5. Soft openings for the shops, and non-new rides in late April, and softs for the FJ in mid May is my guess. I think those people that bought those Vacation Packages are screwed. Which in my opinion is their fault. It stated in the fine print, that they would not be responsible for the ride not being open. It was a gamble, and it looks like it may not pay off.
#6 I find it really strange that Universal would have both Ellen and The Apprentice, and those HP fansites there to promote their park, without the signature attraction open. It leads me to believe that the ride has been delayed from its orignal date. Why spend the money to promote something that wasnt completed?
#7. The REAL Grand Opening will not occur on June 18th, but most likely a week or two before in a private tapped ceremony, that will be later shown on Teleivision. Don't expect big stars to be there opening weekend. They may have 1 or 2 b-actors, but none of the A-listers will be there.
#8 Kinda wish Butter beer was alcoholic, but can see why they chose for it not to be. I used to love that bar that had Happy Hour 2 for 1 in IOA. Would go there towards the end of the day and have a few pints before leaving the park. It was actually more affordable then buying soda. I hope the new pub has the same deal.
#9 Im worried the new stores will be much too small, and Im curious how the Owlry will actually work. All of these ideas for specialty shops sound great on paper, but in reality I think the "personal" experience will be totally lost on busy days.
#10. After all the hype, Im hoping the FJ lives up to the other rides in the park. In my opinion IOA has the best overall family thrill rides of any theme park Ive been too. It will take a lot to beat Spiderman.
Ok Im done...carry on.