Harry Potter Shop opening in Chicago
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A rendering of the new Harry Potter Shop Chicago. Rendering: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Discovery Retail
The newest attraction to Chicago's Magnificent Mile comes straight from Hogwarts: The long-awaited Harry Potter retail store and event space is opening April 10.
The big picture: The popular store, opening at 676 N. Michigan Ave., comes to the Mag Mile at the right time, as the city looks to revive the retail corridor that used to feature a bustling Water Tower Place and high-end brick-and-mortar retail.
What they're saying: "With the incredible success of the New York flagship store, bringing the Harry Potter world to life on Michigan Avenue was an absolute must," Warner Bros.' Karl Durrant said in a press release.
- "The 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."
The intrigue: Not unlike New York's version, the 12,000-square-foot store will remake the facade of the building across from the old Apple Store on Michigan Avenue to evoke the Harry Potter spirit, and also to pay homage to Chicago's architecture.
Yes, but: Don't expect a three-story, 21,000-square-foot Harry Potter mecca like the one in Manhattan.
Zoom in: The interior will include suspended broomsticks "on fire," a maze-patterned floor and the Goblet of Fire in the center of the store.
- On top of all the Harry Potter-themed items like wands and apparel, the store will also have a Chicago version of a "Butterbeer Bar," inspired by the city's long history of speakeasies.
- It will also serve butterscotch popcorn.
State of play: This will be only the second standalone Harry Potter store in the U.S. and only the third in the world.