From left: Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint star in 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban' Sunday on ABC Family. - Contributed

Bangshowbiz:

A Harry Potter theme park is opening in Florida, it has been reported.

Fans of the popular children's book series will soon be able to step into the young wizard's magical world as Universal Studios is reportedly close to making a deal to build 'Harry Potter World' in Orlando.

The theme park will feature a host of rides, including roller coasters, based on events and plots from JK Rowling's blockbuster books.

The Harry Potter brand has already proved a major money-spinner. The books have sold 325 million copies worldwide, while the four films have earned 2 billion.

Rowling has gone from being an unpublished struggling writer to a global household name, and is now ranked among the richest women on Forbes's magazine 's rich list, worth an estimated US$1 billion.

Universal Studios Florida is also planning a themed ride based on hit animated series The Simpsons.