Ever since June 26, 1997 (25 years ago!), when the first book Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was published, the world has been absolutely enchanted with Harry Potter, his friends, and his major nemesis (who shall remain unnamed). Selling over 500 million copies and counting, Harry Potter has become a household name and has gripped the imaginations of young and old alike.

Apart from books, several films have also come out, portraying Harry’s journey to the magical school Hogwarts and his trials and tribulations as well as triumphs. But wouldn’t it be great if apart from books and films, there was an interactive experience where anyone (muggles included) can partake in the adventures of Harry and his friends? The answer is a resounding “yes”!

Debuting for the very first time in Chicago in November, all Harry Potter fans can now immerse themselves in Harry’s life and story through Harry Potter: Magic at Play.

A brand new, hands-on experience

Perfect for the whole family, young and old alike can now partake in a magical hands-on experience to celebrate and have fun following Harry through his adventures. Every witch and wizard out there will be absolutely delighted, engaging and stimulating their imaginations to explore, climb, and play their way through their favorite Harry moments and places.

Taking place at Water Tower Place in Chicago’s downtown along the Magnificent Mile until May 2023, from where the immersive experience will travel to other cities across the US and other countries as well, visitors can make their way through three floors or 30,000 square feet of sheer and complete fun as well as magic making and adventure.

Many of our favorite Harry Potter moments can be re-imagined, discovered, experienced, and interacted with including features such as:

  • Journey from Privet Drive to Platform 9 ¾
  • Jump aboard the Hogwarts Express
  • Step into the mystical Great Hall
  • Stroll through the hallway of portraits (and stop to peruse the art, of course)
  • Sharpen your senses in Potions
  • Practice your swish-and-flick in Charms
  • Seek omens in Divination,
  • Look out for escaped pixies in Defense Against the Dark Arts
  • Get on a Quidditch team and take some lessons
  • Sip sweet drinks at the Butterbeer Bar
  • Delight in Patronus-seeking in the Forbidden Forest
  • Discover and represent your Hogwarts house via the Sorting Hat
  • Make your own magic at Hogwarts
  • Pay a visit to Hagrid’s hut
  • Explore the Hogwarts grounds
  • Get lost in a surprise space with something magical to discover around every corner

But apart from this, the special and once-in-a-lifetime interactive experience will include games, exploration, sensory activations, whimsical surprises, interactive sets, hands-on adventures, and more to celebrate Harry’s journey in discovering the wizarding world.

Created by Superfly X and Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, Chicago was chosen as the debut city because it has been deemed as “perfect” for doing so. The partnering organizations have ensured that no stone has been left unturned and no detail overlooked when creating the magical experience.

Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment Senior Vice President Peter van Roden has given a glimpse at what can be expected from the moment guests arrive, mentioning that they will be immediately immersed in Harry’s journey and experience from the get-go.

But how can you top off this magical experience? The organizers have thought of everything! From sipping on a delicious Butterbeer at the Butterbeer Bar to enjoying Honeydukes treats and other themed bites, you will also be able to scoop up exclusive themed merchandise with limited-edition apparel, accessories, novelties, and collectibles for the whole family, your experience will be complete and surpass all expectations. There’s also the Owl Post, which enables you to send a limited-edition Harry Potter: Magic at Play postcard to the muggles back home. Let the owls do the rest.

Wondering if this experience is for you? We guarantee that it is. This is because all ages are welcome, with fun for the whole family! Children’s tickets are available for ages three to nine, and children under two are free.

What are you waiting for?

Of course, the event organizers have ensured that groups can attend together while there can also be themed events, which are booked in advance. Knowing that Harry and the gang will want you to enjoy and share the experience with as many of your loved ones as possible, why not head over to Water Tower Place in a group? You’ll have a whale of a time and a whirlwind adventure as you dust off your robes, pick up your wand, and let the magic envelop you.

We at Bus Connection know that organizing larger groups of people, getting them there safely, and ensuring everyone’s in the right place at the right time can seem like a daunting experience. This is why we offer our comfortable and convenient buses and coaches for you to enjoy. We welcome and invite each of our guests to embark on their Harry Potter experience with us, as we ensure that we transport you to your required destination seamlessly and hassle-free.

All it takes is a quick call to us and we’ll organize the rest. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for any and all transportation needs you may have as you go to explore the world of Hogwarts and embark on an unforgettable adventure.