The Harry Potter: The Exhibition showcases numerous cherished costumes and artifacts from the Harry Potter movies. The interactive games on display make you feel like you're truly a part of Hogwarts and immersing yourself in the magical world. The exhibition made its debut in Chicago in 2009 and has since toured various major cities worldwide including Boston, Singapore, Tokyo, and Brussels. Now, let's dive into the 2023 New York edition!
Harry Potter: The Exhibition NYC Info Details
Harry Potter Exhibition Manhattan Venue Exhibition Dates: - January 7th, 2024
Official Website：Link
Ticket Prices: $29.99 for adults (tax-included), $25 for children aged 3-15, free for children under 3. Optional audio guides are available for an additional $8.71.
Google Map：Link
The exhibition is strategically located in the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, a stone's throw from places like Korea Town. It remains a lively attraction even at night!
As you turn into from the Fifth Avenue, the grand facade of the Harry Potter store greets you! The entrance is adorned with numerous Golden Snitches, making it incredibly enchanting.
The exhibition entrance is on the right, while the shop's entrance is on the left. Do note, the store here has a limited collection compared to the main Harry Potter store, so you might want to head over there for a more extensive shopping experience.
Highlight 1: A Majestic Welcome to Hogwarts!
The entire setup was breathtakingly beautiful! It genuinely felt like stepping into the Harry Potter films, especially with the familiar melodies playing in the background. It's as if I was truly at Hogwarts!
Upon entering, staff handed out wristbands. These wristbands interact with a machine marked by a golden circle (as seen in the photo below) to set up personal details and even select your house preference. All the interactive games later on use this wristband – so neat!
After setting up, I was greeted by two massive screens revisiting iconic movie scenes. I was hit by a wave of nostalgia watching Harry, Hermione, and Ron's first meeting on the Hogwarts Express. Oh, the memories!
In this area of Harry Potter: The Exhibition, there was also the first edition of the Harry Potter books, making the magical immersion feel even more real.
And can we talk about the paintings? Just like in the movies, they MOVE!
Highlight 2: Gryffindor or Slytherin? Let the Sorting Hat Decide!
Next up was an area surrounded by four exits, each representing one of the Hogwarts houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin.
There's an interactive touch screen where the Sorting Hat sorts you into your house, and you even get a keepsake photo with it! For the record, I was sorted into Hufflepuff!
Each exit had a distinct emblem representing a house, and behind it, there's a display of classic characters and their costumes. Here's Hermione representing Gryffindor as an example.
Highlight 3: Experience Hogwarts Classes in Full Swing!
Walking further, I first reached the wand section. It showcased many character wands and even had interactive stations where you could try casting spells.
Dumbledore's wand was on display!
The dining area was a visual treat, mimicking the grandeur of the Great Hall – simply stunning!
There was a showcase of Professor McGonagall's actual costume.
Finally, I explored the Potions class area – time to learn how to brew some magical concoctions!
In one section, you get to choose which potion you'd like to concoct. Be careful though, if you mix the wrong ingredients, it'll explode!
Remember Divination, the subject Hermione wasn't too fond of?
And who could forget the scene from Herbology class where they pulled up the Mandrakes?
Here, you can actually pull out a Mandrake from its pot, and boy, does it scream!
Highlight 4: Dive into the Fantastic! An Enchanting Journey Awaits!
This section takes a slightly darker, more adventurous turn.
They've recreated Buckbeak, the Hippogriff, in massive detail.
Triwizard Tournament vibes! All four houses' competition uniforms and the coveted Triwizard Cup.
Beasts galore in the magical creatures section! There are also some games like toss and throw – great fun for families.
Remember that overly strict, all-pink-wearing Ministry of Magic official?
Yup, Dolores Umbridge. Her entire costume and the setting have been replicated to a tee.
Most iconic of all, Harry Potter's childhood home! You can even step inside the cupboard under the stairs for a photo.
Highlight 5: The Final Duel! Dark Arts and the Deathly Hallows
The mood shifts as the walls project the transformation of Tom Riddle into Voldemort.
Horcruxes are on display! There's Tom Riddle's diary and the fang which, I believe, is from the massive snake Harry defeats – the Basilisk.
Not to forget the cup, ring, locket, and diadem. And of course, the symbols of the Deathly Hallows.
The setting of the final battle... oh, the memories!
Highlight 6: A Nostalgic Finale
Reaching the end felt like re-watching all eight Harry Potter films. It's so brilliantly structured.
The final section has two massive screens again, showing snippets from the films. It's deeply moving; I was seriously fighting back tears.
Highlight 7: A Gorgeous Harry Potter Exhibition Gift Shop!
Some exclusive merchandise here is marked with "Exhibition", so if you're interested, have a look.
I couldn't resist and took home a Gryffindor mug as a souvenir!
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