Roundup: What's New at Theme Parks for 2010

At this year's coolest attractions, families can ride a Lego raft, shoot high into the sky on a jet-fast coaster, or step inside Harry Potter's Hogwarts castle. Here's a look at what's new for 2010.

1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal's Islands of Adventure
Orlando, Florida
This themed environment brings to life the sights, sounds, and best-loved locations of the Harry Potter books and movies. Inside the replica of Hogwarts castle, Muggles and wizards alike can soar on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a simulated flying ride, then head outside to the shops of Hogsmeade. Brave-hearted Gryffindors will want to test their magical mettle on the twin-coaster Dragon Challenge, while younger visitors can hop on the Flight of the Hippogriff family coaster. Height restrictions vary. Park admission $79 for adults, $69 for kids ages 3 to 9; 407-363-8000; universalorlando.com

2. Wildebeest

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari
Santa Claus, Indiana
The world's longest water coaster takes riders on a two-and-a-half-minute thrill ride, starting with a four-story, 45-degree drop. After that, the four-person rafts shoot through a third of a mile of twists, tunnels, and tubes. Height restrictions: 48 inches to ride alone, 42 inches with an adult. Park admission $42 for adults, $32 for those under 54 inches; 877-463-2645; holidayworld.com

3. Tom & Huck's RiverBlast

Silver Dollar City
Branson, Missouri
It's a full-on water battle as eight-person boats, each equipped with eight super soakers, float down a river filled with geysers, waterwheels, and waterfalls. Passengers strive to soak other river riders and spectators who shoot water guns from the shore. Height restrictions: under 48 inches must have a companion at least 16 years old. Park admission $53 for adults, $43 for kids ages 4 to 11; 800-831-4386; silverdollarcity.com

4. Intimidator and Planet Snoopy

Carowinds
Charlotte, North Carolina
Speed-seekers will race to the Dale Earnhardt-themed coaster, which tops out at more than 80 miles an hour. Little ones (and grown-ups) can head to Planet Snoopy, a 12-acre area of gentle rides. Height restrictions: 54 inches for Intimidator; Planet Snoopy rides vary. Park admission $50 for adults, $23 for those under 48 inches; 704-588-2600; carowinds.com

5. Legoland Water Park and Clutch Powers 4-D Adventure

Carlsbad, California
Riders on the water park's Build-A-Raft River can add soft bricks to inner tubes, then float past giant Lego friends who splash and spray water. In the main park, a new character, Clutch Powers, stars in his own 4-D movie. More good news: In 2011, the largest Legoland in the world is slated to open in Florida. Park admission $67 for adults, $57 for kids ages 3 to 12; water park admission an additional $10 per person; 760-918-5346; legoland.com