Shocking New ‘Harry Potter’ Destination Unveiled Before Epic Universe, Opening in Chicago
The Potterheads are being fed well this year with yet another Harry Potter experience slated to open in Chicago.
Harry Potter fans don’t have to search far for a little magic—there are immersive Wizarding World experiences scattered across the globe. Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan, and Universal Studios Beijing all boast the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where fans can sip Butterbeer in Hogsmeade, shop at Ollivanders, and even ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a wild broomstick adventure through Hogwarts.
In Orlando, the experience goes even further with Diagon Alley, complete with a fire-breathing dragon atop Gringotts and a train ride on the Hogwarts Express.
Beyond the parks, Harry Potter fans can step into the magic at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where real sets, props, and costumes bring the films to life. In Tokyo, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter offers a similar behind-the-scenes look, featuring full-scale recreations of Hogwarts classrooms and the Great Hall. A third version of the attraction is slated to open in Shanghai, too.
Even more magical adventures are in store come May thanks to the opening of Epic Universe. Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park will feature its third Wizarding World of Harry Potter area, this time inspired by both the Fantastic Beasts franchise and the Ministry of Magic.
Another Harry Potter Experience Is On The Way
Before that day comes, we’re welcoming yet another experience inspired by the franchise – and this time, the magic is heading to Chicago.
According to Block Club Chicago, a Harry Potter-themed store is opening on April 10 in Chicago’s renowned Magnificent Mile shopping district.
Located at 676 N. Michigan Ave., the store will apparently be “infused with nods to the city’s rich history and unique culture, giving fans a one-of-a-kind experience and unforgettable connection to the wizarding world,” as per Karl Durrant, senior vice president, Warner Bros. Discovery Retail Experiences.
The interiors are set to take their cues from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005), with details such as moving mermaid-stained glass windows, suspended broomsticks, and a floor patterned with a maze à la the Triwizard Tournament.
As well as purchasing merchandise inspired by the franchise, guests will also be able to savor drinks and sweets from the Harry Potter universe. Its lineup of sweet treats is said to include Butterbeer, Chicago-themed butterscotch popcorn, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans, and Chocolate Frogs, all of which will be sold at the Butterbeer Bar in the center of the store that’s inspired by Chicago’s famous speakeasies.
This is the second Harry Potter store to open in the U.S. (excluding those found at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, of course). The other is located in New York, while a third store can be found in London.
What’s your favorite Harry Potter experience worldwide?