Explore 20 immersive galleries filled with film props, iconic costumes, and hands-on activities that let fans cast spells, brew potions, and relive the magic of Hogwarts
Hogwarts has arrived in Boston. Harry Potter: The Exhibition invites fans to step directly into the magical world that has captivated readers and moviegoers for decades. Running at CambridgeSide through January 5, 2025, the exhibition brings the Wizarding World to life with over 20 immersive galleries featuring authentic film and stage props, costumes, and interactive experiences.
The magic begins before even stepping inside. Guests create a wizarding profile, selecting a Hogwarts house, wand, and Patronus (an animal guardian). These choices are linked to a wristband that tracks house points and unlocks interactive features throughout the exhibition. From the very start, the experience feels personal—this isn’t just Harry’s story: it’s yours.
The journey begins at the Grand Staircase, where moving portraits seem to watch as visitors ascend into the heart of Hogwarts. From there, visitors head into rooms dedicated to the four houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Each space embodies the character and pride of the house, with artifacts like the gleaming Sword of Gryffindor standing out among the treasures.
Visitors then step into the Great Hall, a centerpiece of Hogwarts, where floating candles hover above banquet tables beneath a vaulted ceiling. The room perfectly captures the magic of Hogwarts feasts and the iconic Sorting Hat ceremony.
The exhibition invites visitors to become Hogwarts students, with each room offering a new opportunity to experience the magic firsthand. In the wand room, guests use wands from beloved characters to cast spells. The journey continues into the divination room, where crystal balls unveil fleeting visions, and then to the potion room, where bubbling cauldrons await eager potioneers. Each activity earns house points, capturing the competitive spirit of Hogwarts while immersing visitors in its magical curriculum.
In the herbology greenhouse, screeching mandrakes demand repotting in a hands-on activity straight out of Professor Sprout’s lessons. The dark arts room takes a more serious turn, challenging visitors to confront Boggarts—the shapeshifting creatures that embody their worst fears—and banish them with a loud “Riddikulus!”
Outside the castle, the magic continues. Hagrid’s Hut brims with earthy scents and the echo of his booming voice, while the eerie Forbidden Forest beckons visitors to summon their own Patronus. The Triwizard Tournament room brings the thrill of the competition to life with intricate costumes, a towering dragon, and the shimmering golden egg.
The Quidditch room is a fan favorite, inviting visitors to grab Quaffles and aim for the towering hoops. The thrill of the Wizarding World’s iconic sport comes to life as participants channel their inner Chasers, driven by the competitive energy of Hogwarts house rivalries (sadly, there’s no actual flying on broomsticks).
As the exhibition draws to a close, the Wizarding World room ties together elements from Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Visitors activate a Portkey, explore Newt Scamander’s magical suitcase, and wander through the Ministry of Magic. Dolores Umbridge’s infamous pink office, complete with her signature porcelain cat plates, provides a humorous, if unsettling, photo opportunity.
One of the final stops is Harry’s cupboard under the stairs, the modest space where it all began. This tiny room is both a nostalgic nod to the series’ humble beginnings and an irresistible photo spot.
Before leaving, visitors can check the leaderboard, which tallies house points—a fitting finale for those who fought to put their Hogwarts house on top. The experience concludes in the gift shop, where fans can take a piece of the magic home by purchasing wands, house scarves, and other collectibles.
This self-guided exhibition takes about 60 to 90 minutes to explore. Tickets starting at $25 for adults are available online, and advance booking is recommended as time slots fill quickly. Photography is encouraged, so come ready to capture every enchanting detail.
From creating a wizarding profile to seeing the final tally of house points, every detail of Harry Potter: The Exhibition invites fans to fully embrace the magic of the Wizarding World. This exhibition isn’t just a tribute to the stories that have captivated generations, it’s also a fun chance for you to step into those stories and experience the magic for yourself.