A magical entrance for Harry Potter’s confectionery-packed store in Chicago
Harry Potter Shop Chicago Entrance
It’s well and truly time to break open the Butterbeer in celebration of Harry Potter’s new store bringing some of its fantastical magic to the ‘windy city’ of Chicago, reports Neill Barston.
The British created franchise may well have first hit our screens and topped our reading lists more than two decades ago, but it has gone on to truly global success, spawning theme parks and a wider genre of films that have kept generations spellbound.
Fans in the US have certainly had more than their fair share of magic cast upon them, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, which has made its mark alongside a growing retail presence.
The latest Warner Bros Discovery-owned store will be making its distinctive mark on Chicago shop at 676 N Michigan Avenue (below the Omni Hotel Chicago).
Among some of its key features are suspended broomsticks “on fire” that light up the store as a nod to the dragon challenge.
In addition, visitors can see the water trial’s Golden Egg adds a shimmering focal point to the store’s design, and a maze patterned floor leads to the register area, symbolising the culmination of the tournament and the shopping journey. Naturally, the Goblet of Fire itself serves as a centerpiece, bringing the three tasks together.
Significantly, the new store is set within the city’s historic architecture and bustling shopping district, the store is filled with an array of themed areas, exclusive merchandise, props and a Butterbeer Bar, offering locals and visitors a truly immersive experience at every turn.
“We are delighted to be bringing this store to Chicagoland! With the incredible success of the New York flagship store, bringing the Harry Potter world to life on Michigan Avenue was an absolute must,” said Karl Durrant, Senior Vice President, Warner Bros. Discovery Retail Experiences.
“From the shop’s design to exclusive merchandise and a speakeasy-inspired Butterbeer Bar, Harry Potter Shop Chicago is 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.”
Before even stepping foot into Harry Potter Shop Chicago, the magic begins! Fans, locals and tourists walking on Michigan Avenue will be captivated by the store’s elegant exterior that pays homage to the city’s bold architectural spirit. Once inside, the store’s design leans into themes of resilience and rebirth seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
Guests are welcomed by a moving mermaid-stained glass window, inspired by the window in the Prefects’ bathroom at Hogwarts, as well as the iconic Golden Egg transporting fans straight into scenes from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The store’s interior brings the three tasks of the Triwizard Tournament to life:
