New York City is a magical place for Harry Potter fans. It’s the city that Harry, Ron, and Hermione visit in Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone. It has all of the things that Harry would have loved to see as he grew up: bustling streets with people from every country, new food options on every corner, and constant entertainment for those who are always looking for something new to do. In this blog post, we will talk about quirky things Potterheads can do in New York City!
Chocolate Wand at Macy’s Herald Square
If Harry had been born in the 21st century, this is what he would have written in his Hogwarts letter: Macy’s Herald Square. Fans can find a potterthemed Shop at the historic department store and pick up some chocolate wands (or maybe even an owl). The shop has all of your favorite Harry-themed treats, from Harry Potter-shaped macaroons to Harry’s favorite Butterbeer.
The Village Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village
If you love Harry Potter and Halloween, this is the event for you! Each year on October 31st hundreds of costumed ‘wizards’ gather at Washington Square Park (located right next door to the Harry Potter Shop) and march along Sixth Avenue, stopping at various neighborhoods before ending up in Times Square. The parade is a great opportunity for Harry Potter fans to get into their Halloween spirit while also getting some Harry Potter-themed treats from local vendors.
L’Etoile Restaurant on Chelsea Piers
On your next visit to New York City, skip the tourist traps and head over to L’Etoile Restaurant on Chelsea Piers. Fans can dine in Harry-themed style with dishes like Harry & Ron’s Chocolate Frogs Pasta or Harry’s Favorite Hot Dog. The restaurant does not serve Butterbeer (bummer!), but they do have Harry & Ron’s favorite drink, pumpkin juice.
Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone (New York Public Library)
Harry Potter fans should not miss the Harry Potter exhibit at The New York Public Library (located in Bryant Park). Harry, Ron and Hermione visit the library in and The Sorcerer’s Stone, so it is a must-see spot for any Harry Potter fan. You can learn more about Harry’s life before Hogwarts while getting your hands on Harry Potter-themed treats (including chocolate frogs) and checking out the costumes.
Harry Potter Film Locations Tour (Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour, New York City Sightseeing Tours, Gray Line NYC Tours)
If fans are looking for a guided tour that will take them to the Harry Tours of film locations, they should consider one of these popular bus tours. New York City is where Harry’s story begins and ends and there is so much to see! You can visit places like 112 Mercer Street (which was used as The Leaky Cauldron), Harry’s apartment in Flatiron District (located at 90 Bedford Street), and the original inspiration for Diagon Alley – The Gringotts Bank building on Wall Street.
Harry Potters Magical World of Butterbeer
On Harry’s birthday, Harry Potter fans can experience the magic of Butterbeer by visiting Harry Potters Magical World. Located on Rockaway Beach in Queens, Harry Patter’s Magical World is a restaurant and bar where themed drinks are served (including both hot and cold versions) as well as plenty of food that any wizard
The Hogwarts Library – Books of Wonder
If Harry Potter fans are looking for a Harry Potter-themed bookstore, they should make their way to the Books of Wonder store. This is where Harry buys his school books in Harry’s first year at Hogwarts and it also houses an exclusive Harry Potter collection that includes rare editions signed by JK Rowling! The shop even has its own owl – Harry! Fans can also take a break from shopping by sitting down for some Butterbeer or pumpkin juice.
Harry Potter Trivia Nights at Harry’s New York Bar
If you are looking for a fun Harry-themed night out, they should head over to Harry’s New York Bar. The bar is located in the basement of JK Rowling’s favorite hotel – Brown’s Hotel (located on 17 W 44th Street) and offers Harry Potter trivia nights on Tuesdays. Harry Potter fans can come to Harrys and enjoy a drink as they compete in trivia, get their photo taken with Harry’s owl Hedwig or purchase Harry-themed souvenirs!
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