The Midwest just got a little more magical.
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience officially opens tonight at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan in Ingleside, Illinois, around 50 miles from Chicago and just minutes from the tourist destination of Gurnee. The Pop Insider attended a preview last night, and trust us — this one is pure enchantment.
Inspired by the Forbidden Forest from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, the immersive outdoor trail lights up with dazzling effects and larger-than-life set pieces. Along the way, visitors will encounter Hippogriffs, unicorns, and Nifflers, and they will also have opportunities to practice spell casting with their wands.
The experience has already welcomed more than 2 million fans across 11 cities worldwide. Now, Chicago-area Potterheads can step inside the forest themselves. Tickets start at $46 for adults and $31 for kids, with timed entry available at hpforbiddenforestexperience.com.
And the magic doesn’t end with the trail. At the end of the walk, fans can explore a themed village serving up food, drinks, and of course, Butterbeer. There’s also a gift shop stocked with bespoke merch and movie-inspired goodies. It’s theme park quality merch that’s guaranteed to fuel your Wizarding World fandom.
Families can practice battling with their wands. | Source: The Pop Insider
Hey, look! It's a couple Hogwarts students! | Source: Fever
Butterbeer is served! | Source: Fever
Hogwarts House Hot Chocolate | Source: Fever
Hagrid awaits guests. | Source: Fever
Hippogriffs live within the forest. | Source: Fever
For those who want to prep their wizarding wardrobe, Harry Potter Chicago — located at 676 N Michigan Ave. on the “Magnificent Mile” — offers exclusive gear, props, and a Butterbeer Bar.
If you’re looking for a night of spells, creatures, and wizarding wonder, this Forbidden Forest is worth the trip.
