Harry Potter Locations to Visit

If you’re looking for an attraction to scratch your sightseeing itch and satisfy your Harry Potter nostalgia, you’ll be giddier than a Muggle with a new wand after you read this list. What’s a better way to indulge your Potter fantasies than by witnessing some of the actual places made famous by the films?

Many credited the series as a fundamental element of their childhood and fans, actors and J.K. Rowling herself shed tears at this parting. The most successful children’s book series isn’t fading away just yet. While you may never be getting into Hogwarts, a visit to each of these destinations will get Potter fans pretty close. Check out these magical spots and you too can be a part of the action.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you want to plan a Harry Potter-themed vacation, but don’t want to leave the continent, live out your fantasies at Universal Studios’ Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Submerge yourself in the magic, myth and legend, or take a spin on the Potter-themed amusement park rides. Open in both Orlando and Los Angeles, these amusement parks recreate the books with impeccable attention to detail. Pick out a wand, peer into a Pensieve in Dumbledore’s office and perhaps overthrow a fire-breathing dragon, all with an ice-cold Butterbeer.

Piccadilly Circus in London

When Hermione apparates the trio away from danger after the wedding in the Deathly of Hallows film, they land in the hubbub of Piccadilly Circus. After you get your fill of the Times Square-esque buildings, head to the Criterion Theater to watch performances or pop into Waterstones bookstore.

Seven Sisters Country Park

In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry and his crew take the Portkey to the Quidditch World Cup where they land on a cliff near the stadium grounds. If you’re interested in seeing the chalk rock face in the real world, head to Seven Sisters Country Park in Seaford, a two-hour train ride from London. While the magical transporting shoe may not be there, majestic views and a photo shoot are sure to follow.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour in London

London’s Warner Brothers Studio is a must see for Potter fans. No Harry Potter pilgrimage would be complete without it. Tickets grant access to props, costumes and sets like Diagon Alley, the Gryffindor common room and Dumbledore’s office. Visitors can also learn about the CGI effects.

Great Hall in Christ Church, Oxford University

When it comes to Harry Potter, few sights are as iconic as Hogwart’s Great Hall. Luckily, the phenomenon is actually open to the public and can be seen on college visits. In the films, the young witches and wizards from each house congregate for meals and ceremonial events in the hall, much like the students at Christ Church — an actual college. Visitors can get an inside peek at the real thing during a visit to the college.