New York City has enjoyed various Harry Potter exhibitions in NYC, including the 2011 exhibition at Discovery Times Square, interactive activities at the Harry Potter Store in Flatiron, and the play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” on Broadway.
However, this new exhibition stands out because it offers more than just props and costumes. It uses impressive lighting, detailed set designs, engaging interactive elements, and even unique smells to create an immersive experience.
Visitors will feel as if they are truly part of the magical world, whether they are in Hagrid’s home, attending a potions class, eating in the Great Hall, learning to combat evil magic, or participating in the Battle of Hogwarts.
Harry Potter exhibition NYC
Here are 5 Harry Potter exhibitions NYC:
1. Moments come alive
In contrast to earlier Harry Potter exhibitions in NYC, which consisted of static galleries where visitors would simply view displays of props and costumes, this new Harry Potter exhibition provides a more interactive experience. Rather than just being spectators, visitors can now actively participate in the magical world.
As you move through each room, you will see the props and costumes used in the Warner Brothers movies and learn about their creation and context.
The incredibly detailed sets make you feel like you’re part of the Wizarding settings. Additionally, the exhibition includes specific scents, such as a wood-burning aroma in Hagrid’s hut and an intriguing perfume in Professor Trelawney’s divination class.
2. Personalized experience
The exhibition uses special RFID technology to make you feel like you are really a Hogwarts student. When you arrive, you sign up for the adventure, pick your own house and magical animal guardian, and receive a bracelet.
This bracelet can be used at different spots in the exhibit. For example, in the Sorting Hat area, you can wear a virtual hat and find out which house you belong to.
Your name will appear on the map in the room with the Marauders Map. You will also improve your magic wand use, create potions, earn points for your house, and even duel with a Boggart.
As you are about to leave, you’ll find out the total points your house gathered during your visit. Later, you will receive an email with a summary of your time at the Harry Potter exhibition in NYC.
3. Walk into the shoes of the trio
You will hear the music and movie scenes right where they belong as you go through the exhibit. It feels like you are on an adventure with Harry, Ron, and Hermione. You will watch paintings move in the Hogwarts Castle Gallery, find out your Hogwarts house, gaze into Professor Trelawney’s classroom crystal ball, step into Hagrid’s Hut, play a game similar to Quidditch, explore the Forbidden Forest, test your Patronus charm, and even sit at the Great Hall’s tables under floating candles, just like the students do in the movies.
4. There are several photo ops
You do not have to be shy about snapping pictures here. The exhibit is full of scenes perfect for taking photos, like Hagrid’s big Hut and his huge chair or Professor Umbridge’s pink office covered in cat decorations. You can dress up like Hermione or Ron in the Forbidden Forest or act like Neville and use your wand to defeat a villain in the Hogwarts courtyard.
5. BTS choices
There’s a lot to see, including props and costumes, and you can discover interesting facts about the materials used and how everything was created. Warner Brothers approved the exhibit, so you can trust that all the items are real or made to look just like the ones from the movies.
Plus, if you want to bring a bit of the magic home with you, there’s a gift shop at the exhibit. It sells unique items made just for this event and not available anywhere else, ranging from clothes to items for your home.
Some Questions
Where is the exhibition located?
The exhibition is located at 50 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001.
How much do the tickets cost?
Tickets for adults start at $29, with discounts for children under age 13.
What are the hours of operation for the exhibition?
The exhibition is open 7 days a week, and hours may vary. For the most updated schedule, check the ticketing page.
What does the VIP ticket offer?
The VIP ticket offers a dedicated entry queue, exclusive perks, a collectable lanyard, a free audio guide, and a $10 retail store credit.
