Get ready for some new attractions hitting the Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure parks in the next year (2008/2009).  New attractions have been close to none in the past 3 years at the park, but that's about to change.  Here are some of the new attractions that will be opening in 2008:

-The old 'Disaster Canyon' ride was recently renovated and improved...opened in January.
-The old 'Back to the Future' ride was closed last year and the new Simpson's ride will be opening in a few weeks (it's a 3-D simulation ride that should be state of the art).

In 2009, there are some BIG plans.  In late 2009 the 'Harry Potter' section of Islands of Adventure park is planned to debut.  The whole Harry area is still under tight guard and there are no real details...but we hear it's supposed to feel like you are in the movie.

In the Universal Studios park, there is a thrill ride planned called the 'Hollywood Rip Ride - Rockit'.  It's a corkscrew roller coaster that will rise 167 feet.  It is being geared as a 'landmark' ride for the park as well.  The tracks are going to go out into the 'City Walk' entertainment complex which will add excitement to the already popular complex.  The coaster will have LED lights and great 'pre-shows' for riders waiting in line.  Riders will also be able to customize their trip.  Each rider will have the opportunity to purchase a 'video' of their ride and add any music they wish.  The video will be in a format that will be able to upload to YouTube.  That's pretty cool and should be a huge hit.

Here is an artist rendering of the coaster:

(Hollywood Rip Ride - Rockit, Universal Studios Florida...thanks  for the pic Sun-Sentinel)