Harry Potter to open up shop on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile
An immersive store filled with all sorts of wizarding attractions is set to open in Chicago this spring.
The Harry Potter store will open at 676 N Michigan Ave. (below the Omni Hotel Chicago) on April 10. The location will feature an array of themed areas, exclusive merchandise, props and a “Butterbeer Bar.” (In the Harry Potter series, butterbeer is a popular, magical drink that's served in pubs, cafes and shops across the wizard world.)
The building’s exterior pays homage to the city's bold architectural spirit. Shoppers are welcomed by a moving mermaid-stained glass window, inspired by the window in the prefects' bathroom at Hogwarts, the school attended by Harry and his friends.
The interior design leans into the themes of resilience and rebirth seen in the movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. It brings the three tasks of the “Triwizard Tournament” featured in the movie to life:
- Suspended broomsticks "on fire" light up the store as a nod to the dragon challenge.
- The water trial's Golden Egg adds a shimmering focal point to the store's design.
- A maze patterned floor leads to the register area, symbolizing the culmination of the tournament and the shopping journey.
- The Goblet of Fire itself serves as a centerpiece, bringing the three tasks together.
At the heart of the store, and with a style inspired by Chicago's famous speakeasies, is the largest Butterbeer Bar in the U.S. Other attractions include a confectionery filled with a variety of sweet treats and an oversized interactive “jellybean experience.”
Harry Potter Chicago will feature themed apparel from the individual Hogwarts houses, along with accessories and collectibles. The “Room of Wands” will feature keepsakes that celebrate the wizarding world.
In addition, the store will offer a selection of Chicago-exclusive merchandise including a Chicago bear, spirit jersey, pins, mug, tote bag, caps and more.
"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 VP, 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."
