‘Harry Potter’ Attraction Relocating to Chicago Amid Wizarding World Updates

Decades after the first book’s release, the Harry Potter franchise continues to grow. What began as a British literary sensation has transformed into a global phenomenon, with immersive attractions, stage shows, and studio tours drawing fans into J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world like never before.

Universal Studios brought Harry’s world to life with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Beijing. From wand shops in Hogsmeade to a ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, guests can step into iconic scenes. The newest land, Ministry of Magic, debuted at Epic Universe earlier this year, anchored by Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.

Across the pond, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London has offered a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the films since 2012. With full-scale sets like the Great Hall and Platform 9¾, the experience expanded to Tokyo in 2023, with another version reportedly set to open in Shanghai in the future.

Meanwhile, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child keeps the magic alive on stage. Still playing in London’s West End and on Broadway, the show has also launched tours to bring the magic to more Muggles. Touring exhibits like Harry Potter: The Exhibition and Visions of Magic have also captivated fans globally, with Abu Dhabi also set to receive its own theme park land in the future at Warner Bros. Abu Dhabi.

In other words, the franchise isn’t dying out any time soon, especially with HBO’s reboot on the way. That’s evident in the fact that yet another attraction has made headlines this week with the announcement that Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is relocating to Chicago.

‘Harry Potter’ Confirms Chicago Relocation

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is bringing its enchanting nighttime trail to the Midwest for the first time, opening October 3 in Ingleside, Illinois. The interactive experience will take over the woodlands of YMCA Camp Duncan, located at 32405 North U.S. Highway 12.

Open Wednesday through Sunday evenings starting at 4:45 p.m., the attraction leads guests along a forest path filled with iconic creatures and moments from the wizarding world. With every step, guests are invited to immerse themselves deeper into a magical realm inspired by Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts.

The experience features spell-casting opportunities where forest lights react to wand movements, adding a layer of interactive wonder to the walk. Life-size replicas and atmospheric effects help bring the Forbidden Forest to life, making it a must-see for fans of all ages.

This traveling attraction has previously captivated audiences in Texas, New York, and Singapore. Most recently, it made stops in Austin, Little Elm, and Westchester, and is currently also running in Brisbane, Australia.

Tickets are expected to be in high demand, especially with the limited engagement and the Halloween season fast approaching. Fans eager to experience the magic firsthand are encouraged to book early.

The experience’s relocation to Chicago follows the opening of a Harry Potter store in the Windy City earlier this year.

Have you attended Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience yet?