Ready for an enchanting winter? The Harry Potter: Forbidden Forest Experience arrived a few months ago, and after sold-out runs in New York and D.C., it’s the perfect escape to add a little magic to the season. Stroll through a whimsical, lantern-lit trail, step inside scenes inspired by the films, cast your own Patronus, or bow to a mischievous Niffler. Here are 10 special moments to expect at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience near Chicago this month. Grab tickets now because there’s only a few weeks left to enjoy the experience!
It’s a fully immersive outdoor trail — and even more enchanting during the winter

Get ready to explore a completely enchanting woodland filled trail at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest experience near Chicago this winter. You’ll get to be totally surrounded by some of the most interactive spellbinding moments from your favorite Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. The outdoor trail is illuminated with beautiful lights and sounds, taking you inside the world of Harry Potter. The experience generally takes up to 90 minutes, but you can explore it for as long as you need.
Enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate and butterbeer

Sip Butterbeer or hot cocoa under the stars, toast marshmallows for s’mores, and spot magical creatures from unicorns to Hippogriffs. With twinkling lights and surprises around every corner, it’s a perfect winter outing for kids and adults alike.
The experience is just as enchanting for longtime Harry Potter fans as it is for first-time visitors

The magic of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts worlds is undeniable. Growing up, your childhood might have been filled with Harry Potter-themed parties, midnight book releases and endless movie marathons, but even if you didn’t, the minute you step into this glowing forest, chances are you’ll be spellbound. Get your ticket now!
Meet enchanting magical creatures and iconic characters at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience near Chicago

Along the way, you’ll run into mystical creatures like Hippogriffs, Nifflers, and Patronuses, as well as a chance to spot Hagrid, outside his cozy wooden hut.
Enjoy interactive spell-casting moments

One of our favorite parts of the experience is the interactive spell-casting moments throughout. Test your wand skills, summon your own Patronus with Expecto Patronum. Try Lumos to light your path, Expelliarmus to disarm an opponent… and watch the forest come alive with beautiful colors and sounds.
Take in stunning visuals and sound design

Be transported into a mystical world with this walk-thru experience. Take in stunning visuals and immersive sound as magical creatures and enchanted landscapes come to life around you. Every corner holds a new spellbinding moment that will leave fans of all ages in awe!
It’s a fun experience for the entire family

Whether you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan or just coming upon the stories and films, the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest experience is the perfect chance to enjoy an adventure this winter. Grab your tickets now before they disappear.
There’s a ton of photo ops

The Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is the perfect place to capture and document your absolute favorite moments from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. You can snap a pic of you and friends bowing to a Hippogriff, casting a Patronus, or in front of the colorful trees throughout the forest.
The gift shop has so many unique finds

Adding to your wand collection has never been easier. After taking on the enchanting trail, you’ll want to make a stop at the gift shop to pick up your wands for casting spells, capes, t-shirts, and so much more. The holidays will be here before you know it and it’s never too early to pick up a unique gift for any Harry Potter fans on your list. Secure your spot!
It has rave reviews from cities around the world

The Harry Potter Forbidden Forest experience has popped up just outside of cities like D.C., NYC, Austin, Melbourne and Singapore, and now you can check it out about an hour from Chicago. Here’s what people who have visited are saying about the experience:
💬 Itza V.– ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Worth every dollar, such an amazing experience and my fiancé loved every part. It’s even more fun in the dark when the lights make the forest even more thrilling. I would recommend 10/10.”
💬 Lizze K. – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So well done! Worth the money and the drive. The Forbidden Forest will not be easily beaten.”
💬 Ryan S. – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“We had a great time. The music and effects were awesome. It is not too long so take your time and enjoy. Few interactive attractions for the kids. Definitely did them as well. A few of the staged scenes are epic. Perfect for any true Harry Potter fan.”